Barbara Lynn Kubont

She was born on Feb. 9, 1952 to Robert (Bob) and Ardith (Mary) Amyotte. She graduated from Sault Ste. Marie High School and later from Lake Superior University. On June 6, 1980, Barb married the love of her life, Michael Kubont, and together they began their life in Escanaba.

Barb had a successful career as an operator at Michigan Bell, where she worked in Operator Services, Information, and the Marine Band/Channel, handling Ship-to-Shore calls. On Nov. 10, 1975, Barb received the distress call from the Edmund Fitzgerald before contact was lost; her next call came from the Arthur M. Anderson relaying the Fitzgerald’s final distress message. Barb remained on the line with the Arthur M. Anderson for hours, well past the end of her shift — a call that deeply impacted her the rest of her life.

Barb retired from Michigan Bell/AT&T at the age of 51. Barb had a talent for creating beautiful handmade cards, which were cherished by friends, family, and the VA community. An avid Packer fan, she also enjoyed camping, bike riding, gardening, cooking, and participating in church activities. Barb was actively involved with the VA, Community Action Escanaba, and her church, Central United Methodist Church, dedicating her time and energy to causes close to her heart.

Barb was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mike, on November 6, 2008, as well as her parents, Robert and Ardith Amyotte, and her uncle, Bernard Parr. She is survived by her brother, Robert Amyotte, and his wife Sharon; her aunts and uncle, Sandra Parr, Pauline Sauro, and Thomas Lawrence; along with many cherished cousins.

Special thanks to the dedicated caregivers at Abridge Care Cottage — Hailey, Lisa, Molly, Erica, Chyann, and Sandy for the thoughtful care and special haircuts that brought Barb so much joy and Jennifer for the wonderful meals (Barb loved a good meal). Deep appreciation to Patrick, NP, for your compassion and for earning Barb’s trust; and heartfelt thanks also to the Heartland Hospice team — Chaplain Timothy, Anne, Beth and Kayla — for your support, kindness, and care during Barb’s final days.

No services will be held and cremation has taken place. Barb will be laid to rest on Neebish Island, Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.