Barbara Maples

Barbara Ilene Maples, 67, West Fargo, ND, died on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, in her home.

Ilene was born on April 7, 1957, in Griffin, Georgia, to Glen Maples and Addie Jones Maples Hensel. She spent her early years in Georgia before relocating to Minnesota at the age of 16. Ilene pursued her passion for nursing at Moorhead State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

On November 19, 1973, she married Jeffery Michael Hensel, and together they were blessed with five children: Chad, Brandy, Casey, Joshua, and Mary.

Ilene dedicated many years of her life to nursing, working in various settings including hospitals, home care, long-term care facilities, psychiatric and treatment centers. She was a compassionate nurse, known for her warmth and connection with her patients.

Among the many things Ilene loved in life, cooking was a true passion. She never missed an opportunity to prepare a large, welcoming meal, and her gatherings were always filled with an abundance of food. Ilene was a proud mother and grandmother, and in her later years, she extended her nurturing spirit to her beloved pets.

She enjoyed spending time with family, sharing stories about them with others, and had a creative side that she expressed through crafting, sewing, and crocheting. Her love of music was profound, and she loved attending music festivals and concerts.

Ilene was preceded in death by her brother Gene, sister Judy, parents Glen and Addie, stepfather Buck, niece Sarah, as well as many aunts, uncles and grandparents.

Ilene is survived by her children Chad Hensel, Brandy (Jay) Rodine, Casey Hensel, Joshua (Karrie) Hensel, and Mary (Brian) Evink; grandchildren Brittany (Zack) Day, Kelsey (Joel) Augustin, Zac Weinzierl, Isaiah Hensel (Grace), Jonah Hensel, Elijah Hensel (Ivory Patterson), Ethan Winter, Madelyn Evink, Ella Evink, and Ryker Evink; great- grandchildren Kylah, Lilah, Haven and Elias; siblings Linda Truxton and Bill (Jackie) Maples, and her cat Lily.

Gifts in memory of Ilene can be made to American Heart Association or Homeward Animal Shelter in Fargo, ND.

Celebration of Life Service:  Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 2 PM, at West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND, with visitation one hour before the service.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

westfuneralhome.com

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