Darlene Barkshire

For by grace we are saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, that no one should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9). With these words etched in her heart,
Darlene Barkshire passed away peacefully on July 15th, 2013 in Fowler, Colorado. Born to Michael and Anna Willenborg on September 29th, 1929 in West Seattle, Washington, Darlene was a long time resident of Renton and the greater Seattle area until moving to Colorado in 2005. She graduated from Tahoma High School as salutatorian of her class in 1947. With husband John Anarde, Darlene built a house and created a home in Renton, Washington for themselves and their two children, Russell and Marianne. Darlene worked as an administrative and executive assistant for the City of Renton and various firms in Seattle until her retirement. 

A lover of flowers and plants, Darlene had an active green thumb and a keen eye for floral arrangements. She enjoyed spending time in her garden. She also had a flair for baking and no holiday was ever absent of a batch of cookies or one of her pies. Darlene was a devoted and loving wife, mother, sister, and grandmother and delighted in watching children, grandchildren and nieces and nephews grow. She is survived by her son U.S.A.F Brigadier General, Ret., Russell Anarde and wife Suzanne of Fowler, Colorado, and daughter, Marianne Anarde Oliver of Richland, WA, sisters; Geraldine Weinbrecht and husband Ed of Milton, Washington and Barbara Hoisington of West Des Moines, Iowa; 13 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her children’s father, John Anarde; husbands Bernard Ruppert and Robert Barkshire; two brothers, John and Lawrence; daughter-in-law Michelle Anarde and son-in-law Micheal Oliver.

Mom, Grandma, Sis, we miss you but happily give way to the loving arms of our heavenly Father and the joy of heaven. Until we meet again.

Peacock-Larsen Funeral Home and Arkansas Valley Crematory is in charge of arrangements.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, July 27, at Fowler Christian Church. All are invited to celebrate her life. Darlene’s family thanks all those who have supported them and offered encouragement and prayers.