- Date Of Birth: May 1, 1938
- Date Of Death: March 29, 2016
- State: Montana
Barbara A. Graham Dupont passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2016. She will be remembered by everyone who knew her as wife, mother, sister, aunt, grandma, “Meme,” and friend. Barb exemplified an unwavering selfless love and loyalty for the family and friends who meant the most to her, always sacrificing her own needs for those of others. She always had a smile, even when facing life’s difficult moments. She had a quiet strength and resolve, never complaining, always carrying a positive expectancy for the future.
Barbara Ann Lilleberg was born on May 1, 1938 in Devils Lake, North Dakota to George and Vivian Lilleberg; the oldest of 2 children. Her family moved to Grand Forks, North Dakota in 1950, where she graduated from Central High School in 1956. After graduation, she moved to Minneapolis where she received her medical tech degree, then returned to Grand Forks where she worked in the medical office of Dr. John Graham.
In 1958, she married Roger Graham, and together they lived both in North Dakota and Montana while raising their 3 children. In 1974 the family settled in Kalispell where Barb became the first elementary library paraprofessional educator for School District 5. For 20 years, she and Sandy Streit pioneered library education for the students in each of the five elementary schools, with the majority of her years spent at Hedges and Edgerton. Teachers and students loved Mrs. Graham and could always count on her patience and kindness in assisting them with anything they needed. Barb’s love for children’s literature and her belief in its positive impact for children brought her great joy and satisfaction.
In July 2004, Barb married Tony Dupont. They anticipated their retirement years, with plans for many adventures together. In December 2004, Barb was diagnosed with breast cancer. With the courage and determination that defined her life, Barb faced this obstacle with Tony by her side. In the years following successful treatment, Barb and Tony enjoyed two winters in Arizona, as well as trips to Mexico and Hawaii. Along the way, they purchased a pontoon boat, which Tony fondly named The Barbara Ann. The next several summers were filled with many wonderful boating outings with family and friends.
Barb was many things to many people. She was a wonderful friend who was always there with a listening ear and a helping hand. She had such a curious nature about her, asking countless questions in order to better understand others. She loved all things crafty, and always seemed to have a project to work on from cross stitching to quilting, and everything in between. She loved to read and attended Bible Study Fellowship for several years. One of her greatest joys was cooking and preparing meals for her family. Her fried chicken dinner was her signature dish, with huckleberry pie for dessert. Her pie crust was always second-to-none.
Barb’s greatest joy was her grandchildren, by whom she was fondly called “Meme.” She loved to plan special projects to do with them when they came to her house, as well as going on special outings and having sleepovers. Meme always gave individual quality time and attention to each of her grandchildren. They would all agree that going to Meme’s house meant reading books with her, watching a movie together, learning cross-stitch or some new crafty project, or just sitting and getting your back scratched. Meme always had great snacks too, including jello, canned peaches, and cookies from her freezer.
Barb’s love for and relationship with the Lord was paramount in her life, and evident to everyone who knew her. She attended Christian Center for many years, where her faith in Christ flourished. Barb’s commitment to prayer, Bible study, and ministry had a significant influence on her children and grandchildren. The legacy she leaves as a follower of Jesus remains testimony of His incredible love and grace in the hearts of each of her children and grandchildren.
Barb is survived by her husband of 11 years, Tony Dupont; brother Dennis Lilleberg and wife Julie of Phoenix, AZ, son Don and wife Jana of Denver, CO; son Doug and wife Vicki of Minneapolis, MN; daughter Dani Burtsfield and husband Randy of Kalispell, MT; grandchildren Dustin & Tanner, Kyle, Kirk, Kaleb & Karlee, Paisley, Erica, Grace & Annie, and great-granddaughter, Adlee Kay. Additionally, Barb is survived by 2 nieces, 3 stepchildren, 6 step grandchildren and 1 step great-granddaughter.
Our family would like to sincerely thank Laura and Sonya at Quality of Life in Kalispell for providing such extraordinary care for Barb in her final months of life. We truly appreciate your love and devotion to her.