Barbara Sue Nelson

Barb, born June 29, 1953, age 61, to Herbert Clay and June Barrett, passed away on September 16, 2014. Barb was adopted by Donald Barrett at age 8. She was a resident of Johnstown, Colorado for 9 years and was formerly a resident of Colorado Springs, Colorado. Barb was passionate about helping military members and their families, as well as those in need. She began her career with the American Red Cross and then went on to work at Penrose and St. Francis Hospital as a Recreation Therapist. She later served as the Executive Director for the Armed Services YMCA and the Campus Supervisor for the City of Longmont Recreation Center. In her free time, Barb enjoyed raising five service dogs for Canine Companions for Independence, spending time in the mountains, and spending time with family. Barb graduated from Wasson High School in 1971 and then from the University of Northern Colorado in 1975. She is survived by her companion, Doug Bernhardt of Loveland, Colorado; her children: Megan Nelson of Austin, Texas and Kristin Zaideman, and her husband Matthew Zaideman of Tallahassee, Florida; her parent: June Barrett of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and her grandson: Jakob Zaideman of Tallahassee, Florida. She was preceded in death by Herbert Clay, Donald Barrett, and Catherine Marie Clay. A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00pm on Tuesday, September 23, at Shrine of Remembrance "America the Beautiful" Chapel, 1730 E Fountain Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910. A reception will be held, following the memorial service, at the Olympian Plaza Reception and Event Center, 975 S. Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910. Scattering of the ashes will be held privately with family. Memorials in Barbara Nelson’s name may be made to the Pikes Peak Region YMCA (specifically the aquatics department) or to Canine Companions for Independence. To extend condolences to the family go to adamsonchapels.com