Chong Barnes

Ko Chong Nim was born on November 26, 1944, in Cholla-namdo, South Korea to parents, Ko Ok Sun (father) and Yi Chae Kum (mother). She was the oldest of six children. At an early age, she survived the Japanese Occupation and the Korean War during the 1950’s. She met a young American soldier from Clarksdale, Mississippi by the name of Wiley Barnes III in 1967 and they later wed in 1969. She gave birth to five children, three sons and two daughters. They moved around the world and finally, made their home in Colorado. A natural entrepreneur, with little formal education, she was still able to own several businesses throughout her life. From owning a motel, a dry cleaner, convenient store, gas station, restaurants, vitamin store, and import/export business she never stopped pursuing the American dream. She believed in it so much that she was instrumental in bringing her entire family to America for a better life.

Throughout her life along with her many business ventures, her priority has always been her family. She was especially known for her great cooking, and if you were lucky enough to enjoy any one of her dishes, you would agree. It didn’t matter what it was, she excelled at anything she set her mind to. From sewing, knitting, gardening, interior decorating, she also had an eye for fashion and design. Chong loved being out in nature, especially the mountains and the ocean. She loved being outdoors, fishing and foraging in the mountains for gosari and mushrooms. She was a dedicated Broncos fan and loved watching the games with her family on Sundays. Chong enjoyed spending time with her friends playing cards, gambling, and going to the casinos. She also loved spending time at the 2nd Home community senior center and was a devoted member at New Gate Church.

On Thursday, April 14, 2022, the Lord called our beloved Chong home after 17 courageous years of battling cancer. She is survived by her 5 children: Benu (aka Regina), Anthony (Ursula), Monica (Joel), Joseph (Adrienne) and Joshua; 12 grandchildren ( Quinn, Alexus, Indya, Ty, Sydney, Jayden, Maceo, Naala, Mayte, Jasia, Paityn, Aycen), 3 great grandchildren (Daniel, Josiah, Autumn); her 5 siblings (Sun Tok Choe, Yong Im Choe, Kwang Suk Kim, Kwi Im Kim,Tony Dong Chung), nieces, nephews and many loving friends.