Barbara met the love of her life, Gary Mulkins, in 1958 when they were in seventh grade at Lake Middle School. The two knew their love was made to last and were married on May 20, 1966. Eager to start their lives together, they welcomed their daughter, Tamara (Tammy) and their son, Michael (Mike). Barbara adored her children and was a proud champion of their many successes in life.
Barbara was a beautiful, compassionate, fun, thoughtful, and strong woman who took pride in her role at Apex Die & Box, skillfully operating the challenging stripping machine. Her dedication and hard work were evident to her employer and coworkers. The company lost a very dedicated employee when she chose to leave, prioritizing her commitment to raising her family.
Barbara devoted her life to family, raising two wonderful kids, caring for six grandchildren, and even watching her five great-grandchildren up until her last days. Her husband, Gary, adored her and together they instilled in their family the values of love, faith, kindness, and strength. Barbara always had a kind word or caring message to share with her family members. She was also a very patient and loving dog-mom. She loved many dogs throughout her adult life, and the family takes comfort in knowing that Mitzi, Poco, Molly, Shania, and Shila greeted her in heaven with their tails wagging.
Barbara dedicated herself wholeheartedly to others, yet her true priority always centered around her family. She delighted in imparting her wisdom and enthusiasm, whether it was sharing an inspirational quote, a newly learned health tip, gardening, or the joys of cooking. Her inherent curiosity drove her constant pursuit of knowledge and she was a voracious reader. Anyone who knew her could see her deep admiration for God's creation and her tender affection for family, friends, young children, and animals. While her sudden departure undoubtedly left a void, she had diligently prepared and taught us at every opportunity. Barbara's authenticity, uniqueness, and wisdom were evident, and she lived her faith with sincerity.
She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Bobby. She is survived by her husband Gary, her sister Pam, her daughter Tammy, her son Mike, her son-in-law Brian, and her daughter-in-law Heather. She is also survived by her wonderful grandchildren Ashley, Kinzie, Kaylyn, Austin, Jesse, and Matia, and her great grandchildren Landon, Sophia, Emmy, Elliot, and Brody. We will forever miss and cherish her strength, motherly advice, fierce spirituality, determination, and caring nature. She will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her.
A public celebration of life will be held at the Crown Hill Chapel in Wheat Ridge on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at 10 a.m.
Barbara was passionate about the work of St. Jude’s Hospital and consistently contributed to their cause. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for a donation to St.Jude’s in her name.
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