Barbara Jo Dennis

Barbara Jo Dennis was born on October 19, 1935 in Lake City, Iowa to Albert Walter Herman Lange and Nadine Frescoln Fowler. She had two other siblings, Frances Pike a sister and Robert Lange, her brother. She grew up during the depression which instilled her work ethic and get-it-done demeanor. Barbara moved to the west coast and became a waitress. While working as a waitress in California she waited on many celebrities including Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and many of the MoTown musicians. She was incredibly hard working and enjoyed her work, socializing with many of her patrons. Barbara loved to crochet, sew, spending time with family and loved the Lord. She loved celebrating the holidays and Christmas was her favorite. She also enjoyed traveling all across the country with her longtime partner Robert Dennis. If Barbara could be remembered for anything, it would be taking people off the streets, taking them in and getting them back on their feet. She would volunteer at the Union Gospel Mission and helping with ministries at the Marion Street Bridge. Barbara had a giving heart and wanted to help anyone in need. She was a mom to many people and would always take care of others before herself. In addition, she loved to surprise her family and friends with little gifts to show them how much she cared about them. Barbara passed away on February 17, 2018 in Salem, Oregon after a long term illness. She was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Yates and a grandson, Anthony Stephens. Barbara is survived by her sons, Tim Buchwalter and Tracy Buchwalter; daughter Diane Lucas; her siblings, Frances Pike and Robert Lange; 5 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. The family is planning a celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Union Gospel Mission or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. Arrangements Entrusted to Weddle Funeral Service