Barbara and I were dorm-mates and friends in the early 1960's at WSU. I've stayed in touch via mutual friends and will remember her fondly. Mary Beth Ryan

In Memory of Barbara Blandford Helm     
As published in the Hollin Hills Bulletin (May 2015)

Barbara Blanford Helm died at her Hollin Hills home on the evening of March 30th.  Barbara was a graduate of Washington State University (1964) with a BS in Political Science.   She and her husband, Larry,  following his retirement as a Navy captain, moved to Hollin Hills in 1994.   Barbara quickly became active in the Hollin Hills' community and the larger community.  She served on the CAHH Board as the Membership Chair and participated on man In Memory of Barbara Blandford Helm     
As published in the Hollin Hills Bulletin (May 2015)

Barbara Blanford Helm died at her Hollin Hills home on the evening of March 30th.  Barbara was a graduate of Washington State University (1964) with a BS in Political Science.   She and her husband, Larry,  following his retirement as a Navy captain, moved to Hollin Hills in 1994.   Barbara quickly became active in the Hollin Hills' community and the larger community.  She served on the CAHH Board as the Membership Chair and participated on many committees.  If Barbara cared about something, she got involved, bringing fresh ideas, doing a thorough job and  getting it right.   She had a quick wit (at times wry) and enjoyed nothing more than laughing with her friends.    She was beloved in the community for her thoughtfulness, her willingness to help and her loyal friendship.
   We first met when we were both single, twenty-three  and working at the American Council on Education in Wash. D.C.  where she was Executive Assistant  to the Director of Research.   Later she left to take a position as Executive Assistant to Chancellor for the Minnesota State College System.     When Larry returned from Vietnam incident to the general US departure, they married in 1973.   She began her life as a Navy wife, living in Naples, Rota (Spain), Hawaii (twice), San Diego and London.  While abroad she often  worked for the Navy as a Legal Secretary  or as a military-related office administrator.    
   Barbara had many interests, a curious mind and multiple passions.   She loved the performing arts, in particular, the opera, ballet and orchestral and chamber music.   Her enthusiasm was contagious and she passed along this appreciation to many who knew her.  She volunteered at the library to teach  basic Apple computer skills and was a registered EBay seller.   She was a  foodie  and was always on the look-out for a new restaurant to try.
   Barbara was a kidney  transplant survivor for almost twenty years, but was notably careful and involved in her own care.  It never slowed her down significantly.   She just rolled on.  She was courageous.
   She is survived by her husband, Larry; sister, Lynn Blandford of St. Louis, two brothers Bob Blandford of Hollin Hills and Bill Blandford of Racine, Wisconsin; and many nieces and nephews.   She has also left behind a warm place in her many friends' hearts.  We will miss her.
Pat McCallum                                                                                                                                                                           
Friend and neighbor

What can I say?  She was my Best Friend.  Lynn Blandford

Larry,  Linda and I offer our most sincere condolences.  I'll send you a little note in a day or so.  God Bless.
Dick and Linda Noble

To Larry and Barbara's extended family, my sincere condolences.  Barbara's 54 year, long distance friendship is something I will always treasure.  From WSU in the early 60's to our several mini-class reunion trips in the 21st century, Barbara was the driving force for our little group.  She will be missed--always.

I'm so very sorry to hear this news and extend my condolences to Larry and all of Barbara's family and friends.   I will miss your Friday Groaners, your hilarious sense of humor, your secure friendship through all these many years, and the knowing that you were always facing life's challenges in ways I so admire.    Your impact was huge and your friendship was treasured.   You will be greatly missed.

Susan and I send our condolences to Larry and the Blandford family.  We remember fondly a dinner with Barbara and Larry at the Army Navy Club this time just last year.  Her wit, smile and personality will be missed.

My condolences to Larry and all of Barbara's family. Her good spirits, intelligence, and wit were a blessing to all who knew her. A genuine loss, indeed.

I will miss you, Barbara...your great spirit, gutsy gal!...and the good visits, beautiful photographs, fun lunches and generous help, my neighbor, friend & fellow "impish spirit"!

I'm very saddened to hear the news of Barbara's passing. I'm going to miss her smile, laughter, and personality. God Bless.

I will miss you Barbara.  You have left us a lasting memory of your courage, happy spirit, family albums of memorable photos, and a little dog who will miss you.

OBITUARY

Barbara Blandford Helm

July 26, 1942 – March 30, 2015

Demaine Funeral Home

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