LINDA VIRSHUP BARTEN, 64, Conway, Mass.,
November 6, 2013. Linda died peacefully, surrounded by family and friends,
after a long illness.
Cherished wife of Alfred Barten; they were devotedly in love
for 44 years and rarely spent a night apart. Adored sister, protector and guide
of Lauren Virshup, and beloved sister-in-heart of Lauren's husband Jeffrey
Kaplan, of Brentwood, Tenn. Loving daughter of the late Dr. Milton and Mickey
Virshup, formerly of Kings Point, New York. A Conway resident for more than 20 years, she
was an advocate for the local community and served as treasurer and board
member of the Conway Historical Society. Linda was a pianist and graceful
ballet dancer from childhood on, and was informally dubbed "Queen of the
Florence Community Band" for her many volunteer efforts. For 33 years, she
was co-owner with her husband of Orion Designs, publisher and distributor of
art notes appreciated for their messages of faith and inspiration. Linda was
herself a source of inspiration and joy to her wide community of friends. She
was loved by all who knew her for her kindness and generosity of spirit. An
intuitive and unwaveringly loyal friend, Linda never had a harsh word for
anyone. Her smiling face and compassionate heart will stay with us all forever.
Linda held a special affinity for dolphins; donations may be
made in her memory to Whale and Dolphin Conservation, www.wdcs-na.org.
Private burial; a celebration of Linda's life will be held
in the near future.
Expressions of Sympathy are available at
www.wrisleyfuneralhome.com
