Barbara Agius

Barbara “Bobbie” Agius, 88, of Alpena died peacefully at home on January 4, 2021. She was born on March 20, 1932, to Edward and Edna Noah of Detroit, where she spent her younger years.

On September 17, 1955, she married Frank Agius, in Detroit, where she expected to spend most of her life, as she enjoyed the activity the city had to offer. Early in their marriage, Frank announced that he had quit his job and intended to move his new bride to Alpena, an idea that Barbara was not overly excited about. After moving north, Barb began working for Stone & Webster during the construction of the Abitibi Plant while Frank opened a cabinetry business. Eventually, Frank would begin locksmith and safe work in the area and Barbara would handle the books, working other jobs, as necessary, to keep food on the table. Barb would finally work for the Michigan Secretary of State until she retired, but she always considered her family her number one priority above all else. In retirement, Barbara volunteered at Mid-Michigan Hospital, enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards with friends, and attending movies and the theatre regularly. Despite her initial concerns, Barb loved Alpena and was thrilled to have raised her family here. Giving back was always something she felt a responsibility to do and three local scholarships bear her and her husband’s name. She was a member of St. Anne Catholic Church and said her rosary daily.

Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Frank, twin infant sons James and Michael, infant brother Donald, and brother Edward. She always considered her children and grandchildren her “treasures” and is survived by daughter Ann McConnell; sons Frank “Mike” (Norma) and Philip (Pamela); grandchildren Andrew, Carrie (Tyler) MacDonald, Taylor, and Mitchell; two great-grandchildren Adeline and Andrew Jr; sisters-in-law Margot, Barbara and June; and several nieces and nephews. Also close to Barb’s heart was her “adopted” son Milt (Colleen) Clark and her canine friend, Rosie.

Barb’s greatest attribute was her “love of today”, never looking back and wishing for earlier times. She was always happy with the day and treasured each one. Even with a diagnosis of cancer, she repeatedly acknowledged having a wonderful life and “wouldn’t change a thing”.

She has been taken for cremation and a private family service is planned for this spring. Memorials can be made to the Frank Agius Family Scholarship at Alpena Community College.

Inurnment:  Holy Cross Cemetery