Barbara Mahoney
August 17, 2014
Barbara Karen Mahoney lost her courageous battle with MS on August 17, 2014.
Barb was born on February 13, 1947 in Bagley, MN to Alvin “Dude” and June Wilkes Olson, who survives her. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Bernie Mahoney; son, Shawn Mahoney; grandchildren, Anna Grace and Bentlee; sister, Becky Olson; and brother, Bill (Sherry) Olson. She will be greatly missed by her Norwegian relatives in Minnesota and Missouri and by the Mahoney’s in Iowa. Barb was preceded in death by her father, Dude; her in-laws, Paul and Frances Mahoney; and beloved son, Brendan Mahoney.
Barb was a teacher with Des Moines Public Schools for 30 years, 25 of those were spent at Jackson Elementary where she was a popular and passionate educator. Her commitment led her to obtain a Master’s Degree in Education at Drake University.
Growing up in the Northwoods of Minnesota ignited a life-long passion for the great outdoors. Barb and her family spent time together cross-country skiing, sailing, camping, and encouraging others to join them. One of her annual winter picnics was a feature story in the Iowan Magazine in 1993. Her trademark infectious laugh will be remembered and cherished by those who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be on Thursday, August 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines, IA with a Celebration of Life to begin at 7:30 pm. The funeral service will be held on Friday, August 22 at 10 a.m. also at Hamilton’s Westown, with burial at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Georgetown, IA at 2:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Barbara Mahoney Memorial Fund. Condolences may expressed online at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Tammy Crabtree
08/21/2014
I have many memories that I will cherish forever. I was sad when I got the news the other day. Though, I knew she was in pain for so long. What a blessing it is that she is home now and no longer suffering with any pain. I was blessed to learn from her. Then helping her with throwing parties at the church. She will always be one special woman that helped so many people on this journey. I am sorry to all of the family for your loss. I will be thinking of you all during the weeks ahead. Many thoughts and prayers!
Heather Jenkins
08/20/2014
My deepest sympathy to your family. She was the best teacher in the world and I loved being in her class. She will be greatly missed.
Kelly & Bubba Lange
08/20/2014
Shawn- Our deepest condolences on the loss of your mother. Thinking of all of you during this time.
Kelly & Bubba Lange
Miko Bernstine
08/20/2014
Mahoney Family- My deepest condolences for Mrs. Mahoney. I'm sure none of you know me but, Mrs. Mahoney was my teacher at Jackson and to this day, 15 years later, still my favorite teacher ever. She is also a big reason why, as I'm writing this, I'm sitting, waiting to be fingerprinted, as the final step to me becoming a teacher myself. I'll always remember when she first recieved her first electric chair, and her letting me ride it on the play ground because I would stay after and help her out. Great memories of a great woman, who would always go out of her way to see others smile. She will be deeply missed, but always loved and remembered! God bless.
Sue Glasnapp
08/20/2014
I have so many fond memories of teaching with Barb at Jackson. She was one of kind teacher of children and adults. She never gave up on any child, and was a champion of the children that needed her most. She taught with love and more importantly, a sense of humor. She never backed away from a challenge and there was never a question on where she stood! The halls of heaven are echoing with her laughter! Rest in peace Barb, free of the chains of MS. Bernie and Shawn, I hope you can find some peace among the loneliness.
Kris Nassif
08/19/2014
Dear Bernie and Shawn,
Ken and I were so sad to hear that Barb is gone. Thoughts of Sheridan bring back fond memories of the Mahoneys. What a long tough battle you all endured. You can be certain Barb and Brendan will be together watching over you both. Please take care of yourselves. We will be out of town Friday, or know I would be there with a hug for each of you.
With love, Kris
Mike & Bobbi Molloy
08/19/2014
Our deepest condolences to the Mahoney family. Hold tight to the warm memories that she left you with. They are a great gift in these sad times.