Diane Barry 1932-2025:
Her long road to Tualatin from Montana to Missouri to Washington to California to Oregon.
In the fall of 2022 Sandra Lafky Carlson interviewed Diane at the Heritage Center where she had played such an important role.
Diane Barry was a dedicated community member of Tualatin, Oregon, who led a rich life filled with service, family, and adventure. Born in Montana, she pursued a career in medical technology, supported her husband Art’s renowned microbiology work, and raised four adopted children. Diane volunteered for over 30 years with Medical Teams International and was deeply involved in the Tualatin Historical Society and her local church. She traveled to 68 countries, celebrated her 90th birthday with family in 2022, and remained active and joyful in her later years.
Diane Barry was born in Hamilton, Montana, on an Indian reservation, though she was not Native American. Her father owned a bank, and her mother was a teacher who stopped working after marriage, as was customary at the time. Diane had two sisters and fondly recalled her childhood, including roller skating, sledding, and walking to school in all weather.
She attended Stevens College in Missouri and later the University of Montana, where she earned a degree in medical technology. During her internship in Spokane, she met her husband, Art, a microbiologist. They married in 1955 and lived in several places, including Washington, Ohio, and California, eventually adopting four children.
Art had a distinguished career in microbiology, publishing over 460 articles and a textbook. Diane supported him and later worked part-time in his lab. She also worked as a school library clerk and volunteered for over 30 years at Medical Teams International, sorting medical supplies for global aid.
The couple moved to Tualatin, Oregon, where they built a home and became deeply involved in the community. Diane was active in the Tualatin Historical Society, serving as secretary, treasurer, and president. Art contributed to the local arts scene and served on the city’s arts committee.
Diane and Art traveled extensively, visiting 68 countries. One of her most memorable trips was to Antarctica. She remains active in her community, participating in book clubs, church activities, and continuing her volunteer work.
She celebrated her 90th birthday with her family in Montana in the summer of 2022 and maintains close ties with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild. Diane expressed deep appreciation for her life in Tualatin and the friendships and community she found there.
