Loraine Jessie Barkhurst

Loraine Jessie Barkhurst, 92, of Arlington, Texas, was called to heaven on August 8, 2026.

Loraine was born on June 27, 1934, the beloved daughter of Edward and Clara (Rodemeyer) Bertelsen. Loraine grew up on a small farm near Thornton, IA. with her 4 brothers and 2 sisters.

Loraine graduated from Thornton High School. During her senior year, Loraine was selected as Band Queen to represent her high school in the annual Mason City Band parade. After graduating, Loraine married her husband Varian, a union that began with a fateful meeting at the iconic Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa. They started their life together on a small farm south of Clear Lake. As fate would have it, Varian became a farm implement salesman, whose career would cause the family to move to Nebraska, then to many small Iowa towns, and finally settling in Clear Lake, IA. After Varian retired, they relocated to Arlington, TX to enjoy warmer weather and to be close to their family.

Loraine had a compassionate spirit and a love for caregiving that defined her life. For many years, she worked diligently at Opportunity Village as a house parent, dedicating her time and energy to caring for special needs adults. She touched the lives of many,

In her later years, Loraine moved into an elderly retirement community where Loraine found joy in the simple pleasures of life at the center. She relished lunchtime gatherings, games of bingo, and spirited card games with friends at her retirement home. She had a special bond with her son, Curt Barkhurst, spent cherished moments shopping with her daughter, Cindy Burns, and enjoyed visits from Gary and Gigi from the Pittsburgh area. Family was the utmost importance to Loraine, she looked forward to time with her grandchildren, especially her great-grandchildren.

Those that are grateful for having shared in Loraine’s life include her children, Gary (Gigi) Barkhurst, Cindy (Gary) Burns, Curt Barkhurst; grandchildren, Adam (Alicia)Burns, Cory Burns, Kristy (Derick) Burns, Jessica (Ross) Petrini, Travis (Alyssa) Barkhurst; great-grandchildren, Kayla, Riley, Kylee, Kaylee, Sydney, Payton, and Michaelanne

Loraine went to be with Varian, her beloved family and friends, and will be missed dearly by all.

A private family service will take place at the Dallas – Fort Worth National Cemetery on August 20, 2026. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to a charity of your choice in remembrance of Loraine.