Barbara June Ipsen was born in Los Angeles, California, on June 28, 1932. She died Feb. 26, 2024.
She was an only child, but enjoyed the company of her younger cousins that she took care of sometimes in high school.
Barb went to nursing school and was proud to be a U.S. Air Force nurse for 22 years, mainly in the Vietnam War, preparing wounded soldiers for their trip back to the U.S. She also was able to travel to many locations in the United States during her years of service, such as Alabama, Texas and Alaska. Her nursing career included labor and delivery, flight nurse, and operating room nurse, in addition to her time in Japan during the Vietnam War.
In addition to her military service, Barb loved animals and at one time owned a pet store in Portland and later a parrot farm in McMinnville. She had a heart for children, and she continually found ways to bless them by contributing to their education and/or special interests.
Barb loved creative coloring, especially pictures of animals and nature, and she won many ribbons for her artwork. Everyone who knew Barb enjoyed her sense of humor, which she could bring out in even the most trying of situations, soon infecting her friends with joy and laughter. She took an interest in people from all different walks of life, starting conversations and developing friendships often.
Barb loved to give to others. At the facilities where she lived, she always made sure the staff received gifts and candy at holiday times. She gave regularly to several charities, and she was always interested in helping others whenever she could. She lived in Salem. Towards the end of her life, Barb was ready to give her heart to Jesus. She talked to Him each night and enjoyed hearing Guidepost devotionals with animal themes. Her friends prayed with her regularly, and although we miss her terribly, we look forward to seeing her when we each “go home”!
– Submitted information
