Barbara Ann Eastham Obit

On June 16, 2025, at the age of 77, Barbara Ann Eastham passed away peacefully with her devoted husband of 57 years, Larry by her side. Born on Sept. 3, 1947, to Matt and Alice Butorac in Brainerd, MN, Barbara assumed the role of "Big Sis" seriously with a brother or sister tagging along wherever she went. She once said Marty was attached to her hip! There were many fun childhood memories from growing up in Crosby, MN. Picnics at Serpent Lake, get-togethers at the Steinke Ranch, Sunday dinners at Grandma's, car hopping at The Spot Drive Inn, and Christmas Eve with the cousins. Barb treasured her siblings and cousins and maintained that connection throughout her life. Barbara met Larry while working at the local hospital in Crosby and they married a short time later. In the spring of 1969 Barb and Larry moved to Alaska. First to Anchorage, and then establishing a home in Eagle River where they grew their family and made friendships to last a lifetime. In 1981 the Eastham's moved to the Kenai Peninsula. Barbara took great pride in raising her three children there. From selling Avon® to cleaning houses, she did what she could to help the family make ends meet; to pay for braces for the kids or ensure that everyone had presents under the tree at Christmas time. Through countless hours of volunteering at her children's schools and with the PTA at the local and state level, Barbara accepted the job of head Secretary at Sterling Elementary School. She happily retired after 15 wonderful years. Although, she'd tell you she had to train too many principals. Every summer Barb made it a priority to return to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan where her parents resided. She was an amazing caregiver to her father during an extreme time of need and her siblings appreciated her huge heart and the love she readily shared. Barbara loved living in Alaska and she and Larry went on countless adventures. From snowy Mother's Day picnics in the mountains to boating trips with their kids out of Homer. She loved every opportunity she got to share the beauty and wildlife of Alaska with friends or family who were willing to come up for a visit. And she could "can" salmon as fast as Larry could catch a limit. Later in life Barb's passion turned to quilting. If you were lucky enough to receive a quilt made by Barbara, you knew that you were truly loved. She poured her heart into every quilt she ever made for friends, family, or the annual quilt bingo held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. She had been a member of the church since moving to the Kenai Peninsula. Barbara leaves behind her husband, Larry, and their three children, Ronnie (Michelle), Kristine, and Emma (Sandy). Her siblings, Paula Thomas (Roger), Mary Shepich (Gary), Matt Butorac, and Marty Butorac (Kathleen). Her Grandchildren, who she was so proud of and brought her so much joy; Austin, Zachery, Jason, Shannon, Mallory, Darby, and Molly. And her Great-Grandchildren; Blake, Amelia, Colbie and Avery. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents, Alice and Matt Butorac. Barb held a special place in her heart for our four legged friends, especially the pets of her family and close friends who we've lost along this journey we call life. So, if you find it in your heart to donate to a special animal charity of your choice, do so in memory of her. A celebration of Barb's life will be held at a later date.