Tonubari Barikor

In Loving Memory of Tonubari Barikor

We are devastated to announce that our beloved sister, daughter, and friend, Tonubari Barikor, passed away unexpectedly on January 13th, 2026. Born on August 6th, 1985, to Felix and Hosanna Barikor, Tonubari leaves behind family and friends who will forever miss her presence.

A Radiant Spirit

Tonubari was a radiant soul, known for her unparalleled love and nurturing spirit. Her life was a testament to kindness and care, as she dedicated herself to looking after those she loved. As a child, she served as a peacemaker within her family, ensuring harmony prevailed even during disagreements among her siblings.

Devotion to Children

From an early age, Tonubari displayed an unwavering adoration for little children. At just five or six years old, she expressed a desire to care for all the neighborhood kids. Her heart swelled with joy for her little nephews, and although words sometimes escaped her, the love she felt was always evident through her warm presence and her delighted expressions whenever she heard their voices.

Challenges and Resilience

Tonubari's life was not without hardship. Diagnosed with Petit Mal-epilepsy at age eight, she suffered brain damage due to malpractice and improper treatment, which left her disabled by age fifteen. By twenty-one, her condition had worsened, and her family made the difficult decision to move her into a group home so she could receive full-time care.

Strength and Courage

Despite the challenges she faced, Tonubari was extraordinarily strong. She encountered adversity with remarkable resilience, never allowing it to diminish her spirit. Her courage and determination inspired those around her, as she confronted life's difficulties with unwavering strength.

Lasting Impact and Remembrance

Tonubari's untimely departure has left a profound void in the lives of those she touched, and her absence is deeply felt. She will forever be remembered for her beautiful qualities, loving nature, and the lasting impact she made on all who knew her. There will always be a piece of our hearts missing with her gone, and we will carry her memory with us for all time.

Surviving Family

She is survived by her parents, Dr. Felix Barikor of Washington DC and Hosanna Barikor of Iowa; her sisters, Kate Barikor Grady, Leziga Barikor, and Mercy Barikor, all of Minnesota; and her brother, Leteh Barikor of Iowa.

Services

 Services in her honor will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Sunset Memorial Chapel, 7601 Fleur Drive in Des Moines.   Visitation will be from 11 am until 1 pm, with her celebration of life beginning at 1 pm.  Following the service burial will occur in the Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Please go here to view the live Stream: https://player.vimeo.com/video/1158864122

Following the ceremony the link will become a recording.