Barbara Banzhaf

Barbara Charlene (Blethen) Banzhaf, aged 92, of Denver, Colorado, went to be with the Lord on October 3, 2023, at her home surrounded by family. Born on November 27, 1930, on Thanksgiving Day in Denver, Colorado, she was the cherished daughter of Frederick Whitney Blethen and Grace Earnestine (Stamm) Blethen and had one brother,Charles Bruce Blethen. Raised in Denver, she graduated from North High School in 1948. Right out of high school, she commenced her career with the Mountain Bell Telephone and worked there until her marriage in June 1950. From a tender age, Barbara placed her unwavering trust in Jesus Christ, leaning on His strength throughout her life's journey. She had a plethora of talents. Barbara's nimble fingers were masters at knitting, crocheting, and creating magnificent yarn work, particularly her renowned afghans and baby blankets. Her artistic side was also evident in her paintings, chalk drawings, and a cherished mural she painted on her living room wall.

In June 1950, Barbara united in matrimony with the love of her life, Donald Banzhaf. The couple settled in the Denver, Colorado area. In 1973 they moved to Bailey, Colorado, where they lived for almost 30 years, reveling in the serene mountain views and tightknit community life. Sadly, Barbara suffered from MS and chronic migraines as a young mother. However, her unwavering faith in God supplied the strength she needed to fulfill her roles as a loving wife and mother. She remained industrious, immersing herself in gardening, yarn work, and a keen study of Old Testament history.

Music played a soulful role in Barbara's life. She played both piano and violin beautifully and also performed with the violin section of the Golden Symphony Orchestra until the birth of her third child. Her heart had a soft spot for opera and the melodies of classical music.

Barbara shared a love for model railroading with her dear husband, Donald. Together, they crafted intricate set and scenery designs that showcased their keen attention to detail. Barbara's kindness was unparalleled, and she is remembered for her thoughtful handwritten notes on birthday and anniversary cards. Every holiday under her roof was a spectacular event filled with platters of cookies and presents aplenty. Barbara also had a lifelong love affair with Russell Stover Candy, Honey Buns, and Totino's pizza. Her heart melted for animals, and she embraced every creature she encountered. Possessing a sharp wit and a great sense of humor, Barbara always stayed abreast with the times, welcoming technology as a means to connect with loved ones through email. Barbara was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Donald Edward Banzhaf (2000), parents Frederick and Grace Blethen, brother Charles Bruce Blethen (1971), her firstborn
Ronald Whitney Banzhaf (1998), and cherished great-grandchildren Whitney Leigh Grams and Emma Lee Marie Garcia.

She leaves behind a loving legacy including her three daughters, Susan Kaye (Fred) Travers of Lakewood, CO; Debra Lynne DeJong of Knoxville, TN; and Sandra Lee (Dennis) Garcia of Denver, CO. She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Jane Ellen (Ronald) Banzhaf. Barbara's life was further enriched by her 18 grandchildren and 23 greatgrandchildren. Barbara's departure was serene, embracing the eternal hope promised in Jesus Christ. In her memory, the family kindly requests donations be made to Ethnos360, in support of David and Allison DeJong's mission endeavors. May the memory of Barbara's love and faith, along with her passion for music, enrich all of our lives as she rests in peace in the arms of her Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ.

Services
Newcomer Mortuary ~Open visitation
October 16, 2023
3:00 – 6:00 pm
901 S. Sheridan Blvd, Lakewood, CO 80226
Horn Cemetery ~Graveside Memorial
October 17, 2023
11:00 am
64550-64578 US Highway 285, Bailey, CO 80421
~ Dress casually for a hillside service. Please bring a lawn chair or umbrella as needed. ~