We’re celebrating Barbara’s 97 wonderful, healthy years -- lived to their fullest.
Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, the eldest of 5 siblings, Barbara graduated from the U of W with an Economics/Business degree. (Later she earned her teaching credential, then a Master’s in Education.) She and Merle married; then in 1954, relocated to Ventura to teach for VUSD -- Merle at VHS, Barbara at Mill School. They raised two daughters -- Sherry and Diane -- who treasure memories of diverse summer vacations, a perk of teacher parents.
Barbara was a working mom before it was fashionable, but rather than diminishing time with her children -- it augmented it. She played designated-taxi-driver to and from work/school for her daughters and as many friends as the car could hold. She weathered these noisy, raucous rides with grace -- her sense of humor often contributing to the general pandemonium.
When her girls were teenagers, her home became a neighborhood hangout. The weekend slumber parties with chocolate-chip pancakes were legendary.
She placed a high value on education; there was no question her daughters would attend university.
As an elementary school teacher, she touched many young minds. She loved the “ah-ha” moment when a concept was grasped. Even in retirement, grown students hailed her, often introducing their children to “one of my favorite teachers.”
She was at the forefront of special-needs education. She attended classes at VC for braille for her first sight-challenged student so she could create books for her to instill a love of reading.
She prized time spent with family. Vacations centered around visiting relatives around the country, but especially in the Seattle area. She gave her daughters the gift of seeing their “Gammy” and other Northwest relatives yearly. Strong bonds formed. All looked forward to these vacations, especially the cousins.
When her daughters each married, Barbara embraced her sons-in-law, welcoming their extended families into hers. When her two grandchildren -- Makaila and John -- each arrived she doted over them, then joyously cherished them as they grew into adults.
Her daughters note that later in life, doctors would do a double take to reconcile the person in front of them with the age on the chart. On leaving the office the advice was, “Keep doing what you’re doing – it’s working.”
Barbara was beautiful inside and out – her compassion and generous spirit will always envelop us. We’re grateful for her long, well-lived life. We only grieve now because our love for her has nowhere to go.
We thank all the doctors, nurses, caregivers, and friends who helped and prayed for Barbara in her last few months of life --- after 97 years of great health, it was difficult for her to accept the limitations caused by a fall. To all who assisted, we’re thankful for your compassion in her time of need. We’re grateful she’s no longer in pain -- but has gone to join our loved ones who passed before her.