Barbara Fisher Himes

She was born in Lewistown, to Lewis “Dink” Fisher and Joyce (Knepp) Fisher. Barbara lived life with determination, independence, and a strong desire to do things her own way.

Barbara graduated from Rothrock High School in McVeytown. Not long after, she and a friend planned a summer “runaway” adventure to work at a hotel in the Poconos–an early sign of her adventurous spirit. Their mothers discovered the plan and drove them there themselves.

She later joined the United States Air Force, where she served as a veterinary technician and food inspector. During her service, she met and married Larry Lee Himes. After leaving the Air Force, Barbara attended Penn State University and worked caring for animals in university laboratories. Following Larry’s death in 1990, she devoted herself to raising their three daughters as a single mother.

In 1991, Barbara took “the girls” on a long road trip to explore the country and find a place to call home. She ultimately chose Grinnell, Iowa, where she purchased acreage and began raising sheep, embracing a life rooted in independence and hard work.

Barbara had a lifelong passion for reading, which led her to selling used books at flea markets and later in an antique store. Eventually, she opened her own book shop. She loved nothing more than reading and talking about books with others.

One of Barbara’s greatest joys was thrift store shopping, where she delighted in finding thoughtful gifts for those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Larry Himes; her daughter, Deirdre “Deedee” Triplett; her parents; and her brothers, Kenneth and Dennis Fisher.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Chrys (Albert) Bregar of Bussey, Iowa, and Leslie Himes of Kansas City, Mo.; her son-in-law, Nathan Triplett of What Cheer, Iowa; her sister, Kathy Hummer; and her brothers, Terry Fisher, Mark Fisher, and Mike Fisher. She also leaves behind five exceptional grandchildren — Jaden Himes, Natalie Triplett, Leah Triplett, Erin Bregar, and Iris Bregar, all of Iowa.

Barbara will be remembered for her resilience, her love of learning, and the deep devotion she held for her family.

Services will be private and at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements are under the care of Heller-Hoenstine Funeral Home, Woodlawn, 200 N. Main St., Lewistown. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hoenstinefuneralhome.com.