Thursday, June 19, 2025

Obituaries

BARBARA SMICK SANDERSON • 03/16/1936 – 05/14/2025

Barbara Smick Sanderson, age 89, of Colusa, California, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday,
May 14, 2025.
A lifelong and beloved resident of the Colusa community, Barbara was known for her hospitality, generous heart, and unwavering love for her hometown and family. Born on March 16, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Paul and
Alice Smick.
Barbara was preceded in death by her loving husband, John Sanderson; two daughters, Sheryl Sanderson Bacharach and Brenda Sanderson Cull; and her two brothers, Raymond Smick and Robert Smick.
She is survived by her devoted son, Stephen Sanderson; eight grandchildren: Ashley Cull, Samantha Muniz, Brian Bacharach, Kevin Bacharach, Allie Bacharach, Mindy Bacharach, Chrissy Zimmerman, and Jenny Griffith; twelve great-grandchildren; and her dear companion, her beloved dog Buddy.
Barbara and John were childhood sweethearts, living just a block apart and meeting in elementary school. Their bond lasted a lifetime, and they were married for over 50 beautiful years. Barbara was baptized and married by the same minister, and she and John were wed in a double ceremony in Reno, Nevada, alongside their best friends, Joanne and Ted Holmes.
In her youth, Barbara worked as an usherette at the local movie theater, then as a telephone operator, and later in the medical records department. Her skill set was wide-ranging, and she approached each role with dedication
and grace.
She was a cherished member of the Trinity United Methodist Church of Colusa and lived a life rich with family, friendships, and joyful experiences. As a child, Barbara loved swimming and playing marbles with her brothers. As an adult, she enjoyed golfing with her husband, traveling the world, playing slots with her close friends, and spending treasured time with her large and
loving family.
Barbara will be remembered for her immense heart, zest for life and the way she always put others before herself.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Colusa Cemetery, followed by a reception from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Colusa Golf Course.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Friends of the Colusa County Animal Shelter, a cause dear to Barbara’s heart due to her lifelong love of animals, especially dogs.

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