Barbara Vanetia Mason

Barbara Vanetia (Eukel) Mason, a resident of Santa Fe for over 75 years, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026 at the age of 97. Born on March 5, 1929, in Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, she was the daughter of William and Wilna (Bullis) Eukel. Barbara spent her early childhood living on a farm until the age of eleven, at which time her family relocated to Kelso, Washington.

After graduating from high school in 1946, Barbara pursued her passion for nursing and attended St. Elizabeth School of Nursing in Yakima, Washington, where she completed her Registered Nurse training. Following her graduation, she moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and dedicated 35 years of her career to serving at St. Vincent Hospital as a registered nurse.

Barbara embraced retirement by traveling extensively, visiting numerous countries around the world, including the Holy Land. Her commitment to her faith was evident through her longstanding membership at St. John’s United Methodist Church, which she joined in 1967. Barbara was an active participant in church life, serving as president of the United Methodist Women (UMW), president of the Woh-tani Sunday School class, volunteering in the church office, and contributing to many other church activities.

She cherished animals, enjoyed singing, and valued the time spent with her family and friends. Barbara also found joy in the beautiful mountains surrounding Santa Fe.

Barbara married in 1951 and was blessed with four children: Robin Casey, O’Brien Mason, Kathy Noltensmeyer (Skip), and Shelley Moon. She is survived by four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her son, O’Brien, and her two sons-in-law Jim Casey and Bill Moon.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, June 1st at 11:00 AM at St. John’s United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to Espanola Humane, 108 Hamm Pkwy, Espanola, NM 87532.