Barbara Ann Clary lived life to its fullest until passing away in her home encircled by her family at age 86.

She was born on July 31, 1934, to Alvin and Neva Monroe in Broadlands, Illinois. Barb was the oldest of four children and was preceded in death by her brothers Allen and Chuck.

Barb graduated with her RN from an all girls Catholic nursing program in Chicago prior to ​meeting her first husband, Stan Fjellman. Once they were married and they drove his White Corvette out west to a small farm in Whatcom County where they raised their three children​ Jay, Jill and Jana.

Along with working part time as a nurse, Barb assisted Stan in their small country corner store and managing several college rentals. The whole family, dogs, and horse included spent each summer at the family cabin at Sandy Point. As a family they worked hard and played hard until Stan passed away at age 45 after a long illness.

Barb met and married Bob Clary of San Juan Island. They built their house at Wild Rose Ranch where they loved entertaining family and friends. They made many memories traveling together until Bob passed away at age 60.

Barb loved trying new things and while living on the Island she worked at the flower shop and then for Elderhostle. As a way to share her love of the Island and it’s history Barb started her own business “Island Girl Tours”.

Barb was always active in her community, she was a member of the Red Hats Society, San Juan Senior Center, and member of the American Legion. She enjoyed volunteering at the visitor center, library, theater and for the island jazz festival. Barb’s love of learning led her to become a published article writer and beautiful painter.

But most important to Barb was her family, observing nature and faith in God. She loved swimming and took great pride in her pond diligently maintaining it for family and friends to enjoy. Barb will forever be known as someone who could find the good in everyone, never speaking ill of others.

Barb is survived by sister Jo (Doll) Forren; son Jay (Sue) Fjellman; daughters Jill (Rich) Marsyla and Jana (Randy) Kessinger; grandchildren Nicole, Madison, Merrick, Blaik and Autumn; and seven great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to St. Judes Childrens Hospital in Barb’s memory. Memorial will be held Summer 2021.