Mary Elizabeth Barton

Mary was born on February 6, 1951 in Buffalo, New York. She was adopted by Robert and Betty Wagner at 8 weeks old. Her father, Robert Wagner was employed in the steel industry and her mother, Betty kept their home.  When Mary was 15, her dad was transferred and the family moved to Barrington, Illinois where she graduated from high school in 1969.  Upon graduating, she moved to the Denver area and majored in education at Loretto Heights College. In 1974, she earned her bachelor’s degree and then enrolled at the University of Denver where she was awarded a Master’s Degree in Special Education.  During this period, she completed her education and commenced her work as an educator devoted to the needs of students with special educational needs.  In 1985, she gave birth to her only child, Jami.  Throughout her career she focused on her teaching and the welfare of her students.  She started a program for under-privileged special education students of Adams County District 12 where the Thornton Police Department delivered gifts to these children at Christmas.  That program continues every year.  Her mission was to help Special Education students and she devoted her time, emotions and finances to the welfare of every child.  She viewed them as “her kids”.  Even after retiring in 2008 she continued to substitute teach special education in Adams County District 12.  Other than her daughter Jami, and her kids, she loved her dogs and spent time playing and caring for them.  Mary died on July 28 th  at St. Anthony’s Hospital.  Instead of a funeral, she requested a “Celebration of Life Party” be given for the many students she so valued during her working career.  All her friends, family, past students, and colleagues are invited to the gathering which will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2017.  Remember to bring your best “Ms. Barton Story”. Please contact the family at marybartonmemorial@gmail.com for complete details.  It takes a special person to be so passionate about helping young people who have a hard time finding their purpose and lack an advocate to help them find their voice.  Mary was one of those people.