Barbara Sheldon

Barbara (“Barb” and “Lulu”) Schmaedeke Sheldon of Denver, Colorado, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2021. During her last days, Barb was surrounded by family and friends who mourn her loss and will forever miss her endearing love, laugh and friendship.

Barb was born to the late Orville and Martha Schmaedeke, February 17, 1944, in Orland Park, Illinois. She graduated from Carl Sandburg High School in 1962 and received a BS in Education from the University of Denver in 1966.

Barb lived a life devoted to her family, friends, and community. She first worked as a speech therapist after graduating from college. Her passion for historic conservation and philanthropy took form and, when not raising a family, Barb spent much of her time supporting organizations including Historic Denver, the Denver Botanic Gardens, and Colorado Preservation Inc. Her unwavering love and compassion made all of us better.

Barb is survived by her husband, David B. Sheldon; three children, daughter Devon (Tyler) Coombe, son Mark (Jaala) Sheldon and son Peter (Bethany) Sheldon; five grandchildren, Merritt Sheldon, Oliver Coombe, Giffin Sheldon, Till Sheldon, and Adelaide Coombe and brother Richard (Janeen) Schmaedeke.

A Celebration of Life will be held in honor of Barb Sheldon on Friday, May 21, 11am - 2pm - Open House - at the Denver Botanic Gardens. Join us in honoring Barb, stroll through the garden, celebrate her life and connect with her family and friends (no formal program). Enter the main entrance and volunteers will direct you. Kindly RSVP: CelebratingBarb2021@gmail.com

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association or the Denver Botanic Gardens.

Please share memories of Barb and condolences with her family by signing the Tribute Wall above.