Dolores Barnier

Dolores E. Barnier, of Chippewa Falls, died Saturday morning March 19, 2011 at Chippewa Manor Nursing Home in Chippewa Falls surrounded by her loving family, following a courageous battle with Hurthle Cell Cancer. Dolores was blessed with 79 years filled with love and family.

She was born April 17, 1931 in the town of Union, Eau Claire County to Helen (Lissack) and John Bowlin. Following her father's death, she was raised by her Grandmother, Laura (Vest) Bowlin. She attended school in Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls.

Dolores married Robert W. "Barney" Barnier on Nov. 1, 1947 in Wabasha, Minn. They had four sons, Joseph, James, John and Jay.

She was employed by the Chippewa Falls School District for 26 years, retiring in 1996.

Dolores' greatest joy was her family. She was proud of them and their accomplishments. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren attending their many school events. Times with her family on trips, picnics and camping trips were cherished memories. Her home was open to all. She was a second mother to many. She enjoyed her yard and flowers and collected angels. Her baked Christmas Cookies were enjoyed and shared with many family, friends and shut-ins. The smell of baking Christmas Cookies, cooking creations and many wedding cakes are fond memories for those who knew her. Her dedication to the community as a member of Central Lutheran Church, Past Matron of the Order of the Amaranth, Madison No. 7, the Order of the Eastern Star No. 112, Women of the Moose, Chippewa County Historical Society and many other local organizations. She was a pro-active caregiver and volunteer. She adored her children and grandchildren. She was fun-loving and caring with them whenever she could spend time with them. She touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed.

Survivors include: three sons, James (Jeanne) of Chippewa Falls, John (Ann) of Cornell, Jay (Catherine) of Chippewa Falls; special friend, Donald Cardinal of Chippewa Falls; eight grandchildren, Joshua Barnier of McFarland, Jessica Barnier of Chippewa Falls, Matthew Barnier of Cornell, Alissa Barnier of Menomonie, Eric Barnier of LaCrosse, Stephanie (Ron) Komro, Jay Barnier Jr., Justina Barnier all of Chippewa Falls; her dear friend, Alice Gilchrist of Florida; a brother, Glenn (Mary) Bowlin of Bloomington, Ill.; sister-in-law, Marjorie Gilbert of Calif., also survived by two nieces, three nephews, many special cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Robert "Barney" on April 3, 1999; a beloved son, Joseph M. Barnier on June 10, 2004; two brothers, Bob in 1953 and John in 2004; one sister, Helen Erickson in 2010.

A celebration of our mom's life will be held at 11 a.m., Wed., March 23 at Central Lutheran Church in Chippewa Falls with Rev. Rick Hoyme officiating. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery in Chippewa Falls.

Friends may call from 4-7 p.m., Tues., March 22 at Pederson-Volker Funeral Chapel in Chippewa Falls and one hour prior to the service Wed. at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to establish a scholarship fund in Dolores' name.

Dolores' family would like to extend their sincere thanks to the staff of the Chippewa Manor for their dedicated care and concern.