Barbara Slimmer 1935-2025
Barbara Eloise Slimmer, 90, of Holton, passed away Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at The Pines of Holton Assisted Living Center.
She was born Jan. 24, 1935, in rural Jackson County, the daughter of Russell McKenzie and Edith Mae (Brown) Slimmer. She attended grade school at Carmel grade school before attending classes in Holton at both Colorado and Central grade schools. She graduated from Holton High School in 1953.
She was a member of the Holton United Methodist Church and the Holton Memorial VFW Auxiliary 1367.
Following high school, she worked briefly at Russell’s Dime Store in Holton, as an operator for the telephone company in Holton and for Blue Cross Blue Shield in Topeka. Following her job at Blue Cross she began a long career with the federal government working first at the depot at Forbes Air Force base.
In 1960 she transferred to Fort Riley where she worked until 1976. Her next position was at Fort Leavenworth where she retired in 1992. Following retirement, she moved back to Holton and worked part-time at the Koger Variety store on Holton’s Town Square.
Until her eyesight failed, Barbara spent many hours in the Holton Dairy Queen writing letters to loved ones. Nephews, nieces and others enjoyed receiving her long letters around the time of their birthdays.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Mack Slimmer, an infant Mildred Slimmer, Gordon Slimmer, Lawrence Slimmer and Norma (Slimmer) Chatman. She is survived by numerous nephews, nieces and great- and great-great-nephews and nieces.
Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 7 at Mercer Funeral Home in Holton. The family will greet friends from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. prior to the service. Burial will follow in Holton Cemetery. Barbara will lie in state from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, March 6 at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to Holton First United Methodist Church or Holton Memorial VFW Auxiliary 1367, sent in care of Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436. To leave a special message for the family, please visit www.mercerfuneralhomes.com
(PAID OBITUARY)
