Obituaries

I, too, am saddened by Barbara's passing. Such a kind woman. I am a neighbor down the street and it brings a smile to my face when I think of her and Joan taking their numerous dogs - and cats - for a walk and chatting with them as their pets scurried about.

Posted by Jeff Barton on June 8, 2013

The first time I met Barbara it was clear that she was an intelligent, kind, and lovely woman. I liked her immediately. Every time I saw her was a pleasure. Barbara was a special person and her absence will always leave a void to those who knew her. I will always remember her and hold her memory with fondness.

Posted by Laura Moskowitz on June 8, 2013

Barbara was a gracious and lovely woman. She was thoughtful, compassionate, and very considerate of my partner Donna and her special needs. I was honored by her understanding and counsel, even in the weeks before her death. Her pleasant ways were a gift to us all.

Posted by Amanda Todd on June 5, 2013

Joan, Joey and I are so sorry to hear of your terrible loss. Barbara was a precious person and I know you will miss her more than words could ever express. We love you and please let us know if we can do anything at all for you

Posted by Joey and Betty broussard on June 4, 2013

I am so sorry to hear this. I'm thinking of you Joan.

Posted by Amy Rossiter on June 3, 2013

I have known Barbara since we were both children in St. Paul, MN. Our parents were very close friends. We played together, went to the same school, and grew up together. I had just reconnected with her a few years ago, after many years. I am so very sad to find out today about her passing. It's hard to believe. I will keep her family and friends in my thoughts and prayers. What a loss beyond words . . .

Posted by Cathy Geist on May 27, 2013

Barbara radiated beauty from within and without. I consider myself truly blessed to have known her. Rest in peace, lovely lady.

Posted by Joyce on May 21, 2013

I couldn't write anything last week, because I was too weepy and in shock. It's still hard to write about her in the past tense. What a wonderful light she was in this wicked world! Through all the changes that life throws at us, Barbara was always full of grace and good humor. I will miss her laugh, her smile, her gorgeous attitude. What a tribute to her that she touched so many of us so deeply (and I doubt these submissions include any students!). Miss you, dear! Nancy

Posted by Nancy Waggner on May 20, 2013

Barbara lived down the street from me. I got to know her over the past ten years as I would see her while walking my dog. I always hoped that she would be out with her dogs because she was such a friendly and open person. We shared our ups and downs, and I felt connected to her. She seemed truly interested in other people and very caring, very sensitive to others' feelings. I miss her.

Posted by Kate Gasser on May 18, 2013

Barbara was truly a wonderful person. Her kind and open presence made a lasting impact on everyone she came in contact with. She will be missed.

Posted by Brett Bethke on May 16, 2013

I will miss Barbara dearly. She was the kindest and gentlest of people, and was very supportive to me during my first years at MIT. I will treasure the memory of our lunches together and will remember her with great fondness.

Posted by Cathy Modica on May 16, 2013

I would run into Barbara often around lobby 7 and environs. Always so cheerful and elegant. I told her one time that she would fit in so well in Paris and she laughed!!

Posted by Ed Ballo on May 16, 2013

I am so terribly sorry for the loss of Barbara - she was truly one of the kindest most wonderful people I've ever met. It was a privilege to work with her in AeroAstro Student Services and to call her my friend, but especially to call her my mentor. She taught me so much during our time together - her kindness and wisdom helped me discover things in myself that would surely have stayed hidden without her. I will miss her so very much, as will all of MIT.

Posted by Beth Marois on May 16, 2013

Barbara's sparkling eyes and beautiful smile were just a small part of who she really was. Her students trusted her and knew she would always give 100% plus. Her colleagues are better people for knowing her. Rest easy.

Posted by Robin on May 15, 2013

Barbara was one of the most warm and caring people I knew at MIT, and her office was an oasis of comfort and tranquility in a brisk and busy place. Whenever I came to see her, it was as if I had just been there the day before, even if it had actually been months. She would even ask after people in my family whom she had never met. When difficult times took her away from that office for a period a couple of years ago, her farewell gathering brought our department together in a way I had never seen before. And she told me with her ever-present smile that even this cloud had a silver lining: she was able to see for the first time how much she meant to everyone there. I hope we will remember her as well as she always remembered us.

Posted by Thomas Coffee on May 14, 2013

I am so saddened by the loss of Barbara. She was a wonderful, warm, genuine and kind person who will be deeply missed by everyone who was fortunate to know her. I send my condolences to her loved ones, and I hope you will find peace and consolation in cherishing her memory.

Posted by Laura Koller on May 14, 2013

I've never known anyone with such a selfless heart. I thank her for our friendship. I'll truly miss her.

Posted by Linda Okun on May 14, 2013

I am shocked to hear of the sorrow that has come to you. I can understand how great your loss is. Please accept my love and sympathy.

Posted by Kimie Shirasaki on May 14, 2013

I am very sad to hear Barbara's passing. She was such a wonderful and kind lady. Her beautiful memories will be with us all at MIT. May she rest in peace.

Posted by Cuong Nguyen on May 14, 2013

I am saddened by Barbara's passing. Barbara and I shared many a year at Northeastern University in the Co-op Department helping students and exchanging referrals for jobs. She was so conscientious and her laugh was a real gem! Her work for others will never be forgotten!

Posted by Terry Chapman on May 14, 2013

I too am very sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. She was always ready to lend a helping hand and a listening ear. Her kind, warm presence brightened many a day during my time at MIT. My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you.

Posted by Sue Whitehead on May 14, 2013

My heartfelt condolences to Barbara's family. She was a lovely woman.

Posted by Raji Patel on May 14, 2013

When we returned to MIT after a 6 year hiatus, Barbara immediately remembered us and our family. I would love stopping by her office to share good news because she would get so excited that her face would radiate her joy. When I announced the birth of our latest daughter, Barbara appeared just as proud and jubilant as me. She is a dear soul who genuinely loved those around her. She didn't help others because it was her job; she helped because she was an amazing woman who wouldn't hesitate to put others before herself. Her life continues in the impact she left on all of us fortunate to have known her.

Posted by Phil and Kristin Root on May 14, 2013

My prayers go out to Barbara's family during this time of their loss. Barbara will be missed here at MIT. I've known Barbara for about 12-years, and she always had a smile for you, greeted you warmly, and made you feel special. She always brightened my day whenever I saw her.

Posted by Marilyn Good on May 14, 2013

A wonderful woman . . . we miss her already!

Posted by Jennifer Craig on May 14, 2013

Her memory remains as a blessing for all who knew her. So thankful to have crossed paths with such a caring member of the MIT family.

Posted by Erika Wagner on May 14, 2013

I am so sorry for this loss of your dear daughter, sister, aunt, niece, and friend. Barbara was much loved by all who knew her. It is an honor and a privilege to call her friend. Please count on our healing thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

Posted by Doris R. Brodeur on May 14, 2013

I was very sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. We will miss her here at MIT.

Posted by Phyllis Collymore on May 14, 2013