Evergreen, Colorado Joannie Barth Dies After a 40-Foot Fall from a Rock-Climbing Wall at a Local Fitness Center
By Rachel Hill
Evergreen, Colorado Joannie Barth Dies After a 40-Foot Fall from a Rock-Climbing Wall at a Local Fitness Center
Her life and legacy are remembered through her impact on education, ministry, and the people she inspired.
October 8, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on October 7, 2026
The sudden and tragic death of Joannie Barth has left her family, friends, and colleagues heartbroken.
On Friday, October 3, Joannie fell approximately 40 feet while practicing on a rock-climbing wall at a local fitness center, dying instantly.
Philip Yancey, the renowned author for whom Joannie served as executive assistant for over twelve years, shared the devastating news.
“For twelve years I have had only one employee, though she did the work of ten,” Yancey .
“Joannie pulled me into the 21st century, introducing me to blogs and Facebook, and built a mailing list of 15,000 subscribers. We are bereft.”
Joannie’s impact extended far beyond her work with Yancey.
She co-founded and coordinated 100 Women Who Care ~ JeffCo, served as an administrative and marketing expert at ascendBIZ2 for more than two decades, and worked in education and child care roles across multiple states.
Her career reflected a dedication to service, leadership, and nurturing others.
Her husband, Scott Barth, expressed the depth of their personal loss:
“With inconsolable sorrow and uncontrollable grief, it pains me to share the loss of my most treasured gift. She is my life; she is my everything. Joannie loved fiercely, radiated joy, and lived selflessly. We all love and miss you, my darling sweetheart.”
A memorial service will be held at Rockland Community Church in Golden, Colorado, on Friday, October 10, with viewing at 2:00 p.m. and the service and reception beginning at 2:45 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to honor Joannie’s memory by wearing a purple clothing item—her favorite color—reflecting the joy and vibrancy she brought to everyone she met.
Messages of condolence have poured in from across the globe, reflecting the profound impact Joannie had on those around her.
Friends, colleagues, and even fans of Philip Yancey expressed shock, sorrow, and prayers for her family.
The outpouring of love underscores Joannie’s enduring legacy as a mentor, friend, and devoted family member.
Joannie Barth will be remembered not only for her professional accomplishments but for her unwavering faith, warmth, and generosity.
Though her life ended far too soon, her spirit and influence will continue to resonate with all who knew her.
- Check other Articles on
Related articles
May 13, 2026
May 12, 2026
May 12, 2026
May 8, 2026
Comments
LEAVE A REPLY
Comment: Please enter your comment! Name:* Please enter your name here Email:* You have entered an incorrect email address! Please enter your email address here
Δ
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
Share article
- May 13, 2026 Residents of Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, are raising serious concerns after a series of violent incidents involving a group of young boys who have been targeting...
- May 13, 2026 Andrew O' Donnell of Fairfield, Connecticut, passed away at the age of 39. He was born in Fairfield, Connecticut, and later moved to Ancramdale, New...
- May 12, 2026 Judy (Evans) Milby of Rockwall, Texas, passed away on Saturday at the age of 80. Milby was born on July 25, 1945, to her father,...
- May 12, 2026 Residents of Dromore, Co. Down, are calling for action after a deeply concerning incident at the local play park, where older children were reported...
- May 11, 2026 A video circulating on Facebook has sparked a heated debate among Bell Gardens residents after police were called on a group of kids riding...
Related Archive
More in news 
Former O’Connor High School Football Player Erik Rogalinski Passed Away, Leaving The Community Heartbroken
Former Football Player Brad Hopkins’ Wife Kristen Hopkins Has Built a Remarkable Career in Global Talent Acquisition
