Barbara Ann Wintergalen

Barbara Ann Wintergalen, 89, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away peacefully at home on November 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born in a farmhouse in Kimball, Nebraska, Barbara was the youngest of nine children. Growing up in a large, close-knit family on a farm instilled in her a strong work ethic, deep resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for the simple gifts of connection and home.

As a teenager, Barbara moved to Colorado Springs to live with her older sister while attending high school - a courageous step that nurtured her independence and broadened her world. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Loretto Heights College, followed years later by a Master of Science in Nursing from Arizona State University.

Shortly after graduating with her BSN, Barbara met the love of her life, Ed Wintergalen. They married and shared sixty-three wonderful years together. Their journey began in Denver, Colorado, where they welcomed five children. Barbara devoted many years to raising her children, guiding them with patience, strength, faith, and boundless love through several moves prompted by Ed’s engineering career—from Denver to Des Moines, Iowa; then Saratoga, California; and ultimately Phoenix, Arizona, where the family put down roots.

When her children were older, Barbara returned to nursing and joined the faculty at Grand Canyon College and later Arizona State University. As a teacher of community health nursing, she inspired countless students with her wisdom and compassion. Barbara was also renowned for her unique and invaluable talent in grant writing, continuing to support the College of Nursing at ASU well into her retirement.

A lifelong Catholic, Barbara and Ed were deeply involved with various charities at the Franciscan Renewal Center. Their faith inspired them to participate in several mission trips to Mexico, where they formed lasting relationships and served families and communities in need.

Barbara cherished her wide circle of friends, especially those she met through her love of bridge. She valued the lifelong friendships she developed and the joy these connections brought her.

Barbara’s legacy lives on in her family and all who knew her kindness, intelligence, and generosity. She is survived by her five children: Anne; Barney (Noreen); Ed (Polly); Joe Wintergalen; and Kate Westlake (Michael). She was a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Eddie, Patrick, Sadie, Charlie, and Will Wintergalen; Sarah, David, and Matthew Westlake. Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ed, who passed away just six months ago, and her eight siblings.

A visitation will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ, on Tuesday, November 25th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, with a Rosary at 7:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, November 26th, at Our Lady of the Angels Catholic Church, 5802 E. Lincoln Drive, Scottsdale, AZ, at 11:00 AM. A reception will immediately follow the service. 

Barbara’s family and friends will forever remember her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love. Her spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.