Obituary of Barbara Jane Ford

Barbara Ford, 78, passed away June 24, 2014, in her residence at Medalion Health Center.Barbara was born in Pueblo, Colorado, to Ross Edward Kemper and Barbary Melvina Clauson on August 8, 1935, and was a life-long resident of Colorado.In her 20s, she was one of a few selected to attend telephone operator school in Topeka, Kansas. Graduating as an operator was an early highlight in her life. After returning to Colorado, she entered the food service industry where she spent her career as a waitress, cook and eventually, as a kitchen manager in Air Academy District 20.Barbara's love and zest for life was evident in her smile. To those who knew her best, she had a strong, stubborn side. However, Barbara was also known to be generous, caring, compassionate and strong of heart. She never complained about or succumbed to her physical ailments and her sense of humor remained intact until the very end.In her youth, she enjoyed hunting, camping and long road trips. During her later years, she enjoyed lunches and outings with friends including the occasional margarita. Barbara also enjoyed reading, playing bingo, scenic drives through Colorado and was an avid collector of "stuff" (much to her daughters' dismay).Barbara is survived by her son, Forrest; daughters, Jodene (Eric) and Dorinda (Mike); two grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and one brother, Robert Kemper. She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Otis; daughters, Della and Lesa; and brothers, Ross Jr. and Daniel.Memorial Services will be held at an open memorial at The Springs Funeral Services at 3115 East Platte Avenue, on June 30, 2014, at 3:00 pm.Barbara's remains have been interred at Roselawn Cemetery in Pueblo, Colorado.Funeral Home:The Springs Funeral Services3115 East Platte AvenueColorado Springs, , COUS 80909 Events Service Monday, June 30, 2014 3:00PM The Springs Funeral Services 3115 East Platte Avenue Colorado Springs, CO 80909 Phone: 719-207-8855