Barbara Jean Mares, 81, of North Platte, NE, passed away at Great Plains Health on Thursday, August 9, 2018.

Barbara was born in Cheyenne, WY, on January  12, 1937, to James and Lena (Logan) Waggoner.  She grew up in Cheyenne where she attended Catholic school.

On October 16, 1954, Barbara was united in marriage to Jack Larry Mares in Cheyenne and the couple was blessed with four children. They lived in Cheyenne until Jack was transferred to North Platte with his job on the railroad.  Barbara stayed home with the children and enjoyed being a mother and wife.

She liked going to the theater and had traveled extensively.  She also helped with many dinners at Holy Spirit Catholic Church and loved eating out.  Barbara played in two card groups and enjoyed spending time with her friends, the Angel Group.  She belonged to Without a Spouse and Golden Girls and recently rejoined St. Patrick’s Catholic Church.

Barbara is survived by her children, Mark (Deanna) Mares, of Hollywood Beach, CA, Debra (Steve) Shaner, of Manhattan, KS, Patti (Homer) Bartholomew, of North Platte and Michelle Mares (Jim Abrahamson), of West Warwick, RI; grandson, Adam Shaner, of Valhalla, NY; brothers, James, Jr. and Richard Waggoner; as well as other family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack, and parents, James, Sr. and Lena Waggoner.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Monday, August 13, 2018, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with Father Josh Brown officiating.  Burial will follow in Fort McPherson National Cemetery.  The casket will be closed.  The memorial book may be signed at odeanchapel.com. or prior to services at the church. Memorials are suggested to the Goodfellow Shoe Fund.  Odean Colonial Chapel at C & Sycamore is in charge of arrangements.