Barbara Bratzler Cripe

Mrs. Barbara Bratzler Cripe, 75, died at her home in Palmer, Jan. 2. She was born April 25, 1933 in Paris, Ill., to Edgar Jennings and Ruth Isabella (Morris) Bratzler.

Barbara became a military wife when she married Jack Cripe. For 21 years she supported Jack in his Naval career. They arrived in Alaska for the first time April 4, 1969, settling at Kodiak. Being a military wife and then later when Jack retired and became an Alaska State Trooper, Barbara became a strong and independent wife and mother to their three daughters. Along the way, she enjoyed her time when they were stationed in Southern California in the San Diego and Long Beach areas. Then in November of 1997 they settled into Palmer, making their home there.

Barbara loved a good bargain and enjoyed finding them as she would shop the thrift stores. Also she was eclectic in her hobbies, collecting silver dollars and all the newly issued state quarters.

Barbara Bratzler Cripe is survived by her husband, Jack Cripe of Palmer, daughters; Paula Cripe Casey, of Seward, L. Michelle Deeter and Jody Beth Jones both of Anchorage, and grandchildren; Cory Dallas Reed, Seanne Popp, Angela Watts all of Anchorage, Keenan Williams of Ft. Richardson, Taylor Reed, Teegen Jones and McKinzie Jones all of Anchorage, and sister; Joan Phillips of Seattle. She was preceded in death by her daughter Chris Tina, sister, Betty Chandler of Seattle, and brother, Bob Bratzler of Paris, Ill., and parents; Edgar and Ruth Bratzler.

Arrangements were handled by Valley Funeral Home - Palmer.