Barbara Grace Westenberger (1958-2018)

Barbara Grace (Traubel) Westenberger passed away on Sept.10, 2018 at

age 60.  Barbara was born in Cheltenham, PA the youngest child of Walter and Grace Traubel (both deceased). The Traubel family worshipped every Sunday at Olney Presbyterian Church. Barbara had many childhood friends and attended Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, participated in choirs, and enjoyed Girl Scouts. In her youth, Barbara experienced the fun of Christian fellowship at Camp Sankanac in Spring City, PA. Barbara graduated from Olney High School in 1976.

Barbara was the mother of 3 boys and dedicated her life to raising her family in Prospect Park, PA. She was always willing to selflessly help those around her, even when she herself did not have much to spare. She was a loyal friend and a kind person who could be counted on in a time of need. Barbara attended services at Holmes Presbyterian Church, Holmes, PA. and frequently volunteered her time. Barbara always worked to support her children; and everywhere she was employed, she made a difference whether it was in pediatric health practices or in sports medicine office management.

Barbara loved lighting up the room with conversation, jokes and laughter. She often spent her free time gardening and enjoying her dogs, Chuckie and Codie. She loved animals of all kinds.  Barbara was especially talented with sewing, needlepoint and making decorative holiday crafts. She created outfits and holiday costumes for her growing sons, sometimes staying up late at night. Whether it's the coastline of NJ or Cape Cod, MA or San Diego, CA, Barbara had a close affinity for the shore and always managed to share beach time over the years with her family and closest friends.

Barbara is survived by her 3 sons and 6 grandchildren. Oldest son David lives in California with his 3 boys: Evan, Ty, and Joey. Middle son, Eric, lives nearby with Mary and children Amber and Eric Jr.  Barbara's youngest son, Tim resides with  Alyssa and their daughter, Lily.  Barbara lived for her son's and grandchildren's visits. During her 33 month fight with Gliobastoma brain cancer, there was no question that they were her source of inspiration, pride and joy. Those precious visits made her smile and brightened her days and nights. Her final days were spent surrounded by hundreds of pictures of them.

She is also survived by her loving brother David, wife Sally and his family and her caregiving sister, Carolyn, husband Ralph and her family.  While residing with her family or her devoted friend, Karen, many days were filled with medical appointments and treatment recovery. But, with support, she was busy with family celebrations, the holidays and spending time with good friends. Barbara valued her time with Pastor Leah of the Anchor Presbyterian Church. She especially enjoyed going to the activities at the public library and the support programs at Gilda's Club, the outstanding non-profit organization operated by the Cancer Support Community of Greater Philadelphia. Barbara looked forward to dates of therapeutic craft activities while making new friends with members who were also facing a cancer diagnosis.

Barbara always spoke of one day seeing her beloved "puppies" again and being reunited with deceased family she greatly loved and missed. During her final days, in Hospice Care, she received compassionate medical care. Many family and close friends visited as she transitioned to meet her Father and Lord Jesus Christ.

Barbara's life and her mark on this world will be cherished and remembered by her family for years to come.  A Memorial Service will be held in October to allow those who are far away to attend.  Details will be sent by social media as soon as a date and place are determined.