Barbara Kooi Hurst McConnell passed away in Colorado Springs, CO, Thursday evening, August 22, 2024, at the age of 91.

Born on June 22, 1933, Barbara was the youngest child born to Thomas Joseph Hurst and Vera Kooi Hurst. She had 4 older sisters and one older brother.

Along with her siblings, Barbara was raised in Sheridan, Wyoming. Throughout high school she was highly focused on music while she still found time to do other things such as; be the class president, be a member of the honor society, school paper staff and co-editor, member of the bowling team, and the Homecoming Queen her senior year. Barbara graduated from Sheridan High in 1951.

After high school graduation, Barbara spent her freshman year at Wellesley College in MA. She then transferred to the University of Wyoming in Laramie to complete her college education. While there, she was once again very involved in her school life along with many campus clubs and activities. Barbara was a member of Pi Beta Phi Sorority, Canterbury Club, WAA, AWS, Iron Skull, The Rifle Team, AF ROTC Sponsor, Phi Sigma Iota, 1953 Homecoming Attendant, and the President of the Mortar Board, graduating in 1955.

Barbara married Dewey Lee McConnell on June 18th, 1955, in Sheridan Wy. They went on to make their home and raise their family in Laramie, WY, Dewey’s hometown. Together, Barbara and Dewey loved to go dancing, camping, bowling, and spending time at the Hurst family cabin. Barbara and Dewey had 6 sons; Mark Dale, David Craig, Paul Hurst, Thomas Dewey, Stephen Lee, and John Patrick.

Barbara was a gifted vocal accompanist. She accompanied UW vocal students during her years in Laramie.

After Dewey’s death in 1984, Barbara relocated to Colorado Springs, Co., where she continued sharing her love of music. One of her all-time favorite piano pieces to play was Over The Rainbow.

Barbara is survived by sons Mark (Julie) of Oregon, David (Shannon) of Texas, Paul (Sandy) of Wyoming, Thomas (Carol) of Arizona, Stephen (Joan) of Colorado, John (Jane) of Vermont. Brother, Thomas Kooi Hurst, Wyoming, 17 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Dewey Lee McConnell, sisters Mary, Jean, Elaine, Carol, and granddaughter Amanda Hope McConnell.

In remembrance, son John commented, “I’m so grateful she gave me music, and the ability to laugh at life”.

As per Barbara’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.

The Sheridan Press - Sep. 6, 2024.