Barbara L. Townsend

Barbara L. Townsend was born Feb. 11, 1933 and passed away March 6, 2017. Barbara lived in Denver and vacationed at her home in Gunnison where she and husband Richard felt was truly home. Since 1955, Barbara, Richard and son Jim spent many a summer camping and fishing in addition to celebrating winter holidays in the Gunnison Valley. Barbara had a long career and retired from Colorado State Employees Credit Union after opening multiple branches throughout Colorado while becoming the organization’s first female Branch Manager. After retirement, Barbara enjoyed traveling internationally with her friends and sisters. Over the years, Barbara opened her home and heart to several young people from Gunnison who relocated to the Denver area. She became affectionately known as Grandma T to many families and generations. As a passionate volunteer, Barbara spent time working with the Alzheimer’s Organization and enjoyed being a member of the Red Hat Society. Above all she was an avid Bronco’s fan. Many will miss her. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard Townsend, sister Maxine, and brother Don. She is survived by her sister, Virginia Dionigi and husband Rudy; son, James Townsend and wife Carol; grandson, Joshua Townsend and wife Audrie; granddaughter, Morgan Townsend and husband Chester Anderson; Kabel Skelton, Karter Skelton and wife Tori; great grandchildren, Brantley and Levi Townsend, and Porter Skelton. Our family would like to thank and recognize the numerous caring staff members of Home Health, Hospice, and the Gunnison Valley Hospital. The kindness and compassion for our family was overwhelming and appreciated.