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IN MEMORIAM: LESLIE VON BARGEN July 11, 2012 (0 comments)
Springfield, VT— Leslie Bibens Von Bargen died July 9 after a two-year battle with ovarian cancer. She was 58.
Born in Springfield, VT, she was one of six children born to Eric R. and Janet Bibens. In 1975, she married John Von Bargen, founder of Von Bargen’s Jewelry, and she was an integral part of the firm’s success. Von Bargen’s now boasts four stores in Springfield, Stratton, and Burlington, VT, and Hanover, NH.
But life wasn’t all about business for Leslie Von Bargen, Her primary ambition in life was to be a mother to the couple’s two children, John Eric and Julie, and, later, a grandmother.
“She put an exceptional amount of energy and love into her family. She also shared her love and energy with many, many friends,” said daughter Julie Von Bargen Thom.
Thom said her mother’s pride and passion was the time she spent loving and caring for family and friends. “Leslie lived for the moment and always brought her “triple double” energy and positive attitude to the people around her, even when faced with the horrendous trials of cancer. She displayed incredible strength, courage and grace and gained the admiration and love of everyone she encountered during her cancer journey. She faced the most difficult of moments with her signature smile and pink lipstick, always the epitome of class.”
Leslie Von Bargen is survived by her husband, John, son John Eric, daughter-in-law Emily, daughter Julie, son-in-law Jason Thom, grandchildren Jack Von Bargen and Evie Thom, and siblings Rick Bibens, Roy Bibens, Bob Bibens, Russell Bibens, and Marcia Tammeus.
“Leslie will be missed intensely by her family and by the many friends for whom she cared so deeply. We are so thankful and touched by the incredible care and love of all those who supported us through the recent past,” said Thom.
From left, Jason Thom, Julie Von Bargen Thom, Leslie Von Bargen, and John Von Bargen
Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 14 at Congregational Church in Springfield, VT. A reception will follow at the Von Bargen’s home.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations to honor Leslie's memory be made to The Norris Cotton Cancer Center Research Fund, (603) 653-0745, or the Oncology Clinic at Springfield Hospital, (802) 886-1600.