Theresa Jean Barron Kinniburgh, 42

Theresa Jean Barron Kinniburgh, 42, of Havre, died Oct. 21, 2010, as a result of injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident some years ago. She was born Sept. 21, 1968, in Kalispell, the daughter of Richard L. and Nancy (Poston) Barron. She attended Helena Flats Elementary School and graduated from Flathead High School in 1986. Shortly after her graduation, Theresa was involved in a major automobile accident involving a reckless driver. Theresa nearly lost her life that day in 1987; however, her extreme determination and faith allowed her to overcome the odds. She spent nearly an entire year in the hospital, but she never fully recovered from the extensive injuries she sustained. Unfortunately, these injuries plagued her for the remainder of her life, and ultimately led to her death. Despite her many health battles and the fact that she was going blind, Theresa never once complained. Her positive attitude, compassion and exuberance for life were inspirational to all who knew her. In her own words, Theresa said, I figure every day that I am still alive is a bonus. Theresa married her high school sweetheart, Dennis Kinniburgh, in 1992, and went on to have three children. Dennis and her children were a constant source of pride and joy for Theresa. Besides walking many miles a day, Theresa enjoyed baking, fishing and camping, but most of all enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. In February 2010, Theresa completed a one-month program in Portland at Guide Dogs for the Blind, where she was paired with her loyal guide dog, Dusky. Theresa leaves behind her beloved husband, Dennis, and their three children, Patrick, Paul and Peter Kinniburgh, all of Havre; her parents, Richard and Nancy Barron, of Kalispell; her sister, Paula, and Kelly Standon, of Columbia Falls; her brother, Bruce, and Cindy Barron, of Palmdale, Calif.; her twin brother, Mark, and Cammi Barron, of Kalispell; and sister, Andrea, and Ron Barron, of Bangkok, Thailand. Also surviving is her mother-in-law, Juanita Kinniburgh, of Havre; sister-in-law, Juanetta, and Matt Schrepfer, of Eureka, and brothers-in-law, Dale and Cathy of Libby, David and Muffie of Minnesota, and Dan Kinniburgh of Louisiana. Theresa also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and her devoted guide dog Dusky. A memorial service for Theresa is being planned for July 2011. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donations to the Portland, Ore., Guide Dogs for the Blind at Donations Department, Guide Dogs for the Blind, P.O. Box 3950, San Rafael, CA 94912-3950; or charity of choice. Theresa will forever be loved and missed.