Barbara Visser Giese's Obituary
Barbara Visser Giese
Barbara Visser Giese, age 70, of Murray, Utah, beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend passed away unexpectedly at her home on December 29th, 2022.
Barbara was born September 28th, 1952, in Rotterdam, Netherlands to Arie Visser and Emma Kionka Visser. She immigrated to the United States with her family in 1960. The eldest daughter, Barbara had five siblings. She was a strong, independent young woman, with a streak of stubbornness that preceded her. She was also very loving, quick witted, incredibly empathetic, and always the activist. Barbara loved adventure and always lived her life to its fullest.
Barbara met and fell in love with Walter Howard (Bud) Giese in 1973, they lived in Salt Lake City and were married for 22 years. They had two children together, Sam and Misty. Although, they parted ways in 1995, they remained committed to each other and to their children until Bud’s death in December of 2016.
Barbara had so many accomplishments in her lifetime to be proud of. One she was most proud of was graduating from Salt Lake Community College where she received her degree in Occupational Therapy in 1995. Barbara loved her job and enjoyed working in all areas of the healthcare industry; whether it was home health, patients with special needs or assisted living, she was truly dedicated to advocacy, as she became the voice for those who had difficulty in being heard. She finally retired after 22 years and devoted her energy to being the best mother to Sam and Misty, and spoiling her precious grandkids, James, and Lily.
Barbara loved being outdoors, whether it was walking 6-10 miles a day or riding her bike on the Jordan River Parkway nothing stopped her from getting her daily dose of fresh air and Vitamin C. She was totally devoted to herfamily, her many friends, her cats, and her beloved chickens. She will be missed more than words can express.
Barbara is survived by her son Sam Giese, daughter Misty Giese Cowley (Randy), grandchildren, James Reeves, and Lily Cowley. Sister, Ingrid Visser, Carolyn (Larry) Larsen, Otto (Pamela) Visser, Richard (Yvette) Visser, and many nieces and nephews.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents Arie & Emma Visser, and her brother Peter Visser.
A viewing will be held at Premier Funeral Services – 67 East 8000 South - Salt Lake City, UT 84047 – on Thursday, January 5th, 2023 beginning at 6:00 pm and ending at 8:00 pm. Cremation will follow the service.
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