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Barbara Bardin

1951 - 2015

Barbara Bardin obituary, 1951-2015, Burlington, VT

BORN

1951

DIED

2015

Barbara Bardin Obituary

Barbara J. Bardin

1951 - 2015 MANCHESTER Barbara J. Bardin (aka: PBear), age 63, died on April 26, 2015 of complications from ovarian cancer, losing a two-and-a-half-year struggle. She did not fade away nor did she go quietly; Barbara loved life and fought to keep hers with unrelenting tenacity and fierceness and the best medical expertise she could find. Barbara was born on May 22, 1951, to Gladys Mae Parry Bardin and Malcolm Stanley Bardin in Granville, New York. Barbara was the oldest of five siblings. She grew up in Manchester, VT, and graduated from Burr and Burton Academy in the class of 1969. She attributed her high school experience - which included her classmates, teachers, and many eventswith providing her with a solid foundation for her journey through life. Barbara organized and catered several high school reunions, including the latest, which was held in the fall of 2014. There she received the Alumni Achievement Award and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. Following her heartfelt and emotional speech, Barbara was very moved by a standing ovation from her classmates and friends. Anyone who was fortunate enough to have met Barbara Bardin and to have spent time with her either professionally or personally knew they were in the presence of a spirited and engaging force of nature. Known to work and play hard, she had high expectations for perfection and took a childlike delight in hardy celebration. No one escaped this force of nature and any shyness or resistance you might have, quickly disappeared as Barbara delightfully encouraged professional excellence and playful creative partying. She was famous for her generosity of spirit, a passion for Veuve Clicquot Champagne and for her love of fine food and outrageous adventure. It's no wonder that Barbara achieved success in her businesses and was beloved by so many friends near and far. Barbara Bardin was the founding owner of Splash! at the Boathouse in Burlington, VT, which opened in 2003. Splash! is Burlington's only restaurant on a floating dock located directly on the magnificent shores of Lake Champlain. Barbara created Splash! on the dock of the newly constructed Community Boathouse and Marina. It was an extraordinary venture. Barbara's catering and restaurant expertise sprung from sheer chutzpah, guts, talent, creativity, brawn, and savvy smarts. Splash! which Barbara built into a successful seasonal restaurant and bar, became known as "the jewel in the crown" of Burlington. It was while Barbara was working as a corsetiere for Janette Racine at Bertha Church, a lingerie shop located in downtown Burlington, that she also began catering part-time, then later started her own catering business, Let's Pretend, with business partner, Paul Bahan. Let's Pretend provided Barbara with a stage for her imagination and creativity, and she produced unforgettable thematic events. Let's Pretend became the go-to caterer for private parties, elegant wedding receptions, and formal corporate and nonprofit events. Surprise elements included themes from Frankenstein to Dickens or medieval to Moroccan, complete with appropriate costumes and props - the more unique the better. Barbara rose to each and every occasion, and her clients raved about her. Barbara's life was an adventure in possibility, serious when appropriate, yet always ready to seize the moment and party the night away. She traveled extensively with family and friends and bought her dream vacation home on the Island of St. John in the US Virgin Islands in 2008, where she reveled in island life: sailing, snorkeling, and loving up the sun. Barbara's zest for life meant jumping on every opportunity to get the most joy possible from every day. If anyone could turn a lemon into lemonade, it was Barbara Bardin. Even through her very difficult struggle to survive cancer, she managed to keep those closest to her laughing, bantering, and thoroughly entertained. Barbara leaves behind a void that is impossible to fill. She will be remembered through all the events she so masterfully helped create, stories that will no doubt be told over and over again by those of us who were lucky enough to have been a part of them. She leaves her business, Splash!, to her business associates, Jenn Sinclair and Barbara Cote, also owners of Barkeaters Restaurant in Shelburne, who will continue Splash! as Splash! Survivors of Barbara's family include her brother, David Bardin and his wife, Dale Bardin; her sister, Betsy Hoag and husband, Andrew Hoag; a brother, Sam Cook and wife, Kim Hoard Cook; her sister, Susan Cook Parry and partner, Jimmy Gliminakis; she was delighted to have recently found another sister, Diane Mercure. She leaves her nieces and nephews; Tyler Bardin, Nicole Bardin, Gabrielle Hoag, Danielle Zanolli, Samantha Cook and Dana Towslee. She also leaves her grandnephew, Camron Zanolli, and grandnieces, Madison Haskell and Harper Towslee. A Special High Five to her medical support team: her chemo nurses, especially , Deb Clark and Kim Spina and all the oncology nurses, and to her gynecologic oncologists, Dr. Cheung Wong and Dr. Unger. Barbara was also enormously grateful for all of the compassionate caregivers, doctors and specialists of the University of Vermont Medical Center and the Vermont Respite House. Their expertise, realistic optimism, and deeply expressive compassion made all the difference. Barbara also leaves behind her special pals to party on: "Our gang! What fun we had! Dinners, D Dock Boating, cocktails, glorious sunsets. How I love you all"!!! A Loving Acknowledgement to Friends along Barbara's Life Journey. Barbara was unable to complete her magnanimous intention to include personal remarks for everyone who inspired, influenced, and supported her along the way. She wanted all to know that she remembered every kindness shown to her and was deeply overwhelmed by the expressions of love she received in the past few weeks. In lieu of flowers, Barbara requested that if you would like to make a donation in her memory please do so to one of the following: The University of Vermont Cancer Center, the Vermont Respite House, Williston, VT., or to a Humane Society of one's choice. If you would like to send a card or a note to the family, please mail to her brother, David Bardin, P.O. Box 74, Manchester Center, Vermont 05255. A celebration of Barbara's life will be held at the Coach Barn at Shelburne Farms, 1611 Harbor Road, Shelburne, VT on June 21, 2015, beginning at 11 am.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Bennington Banner on May 2, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
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JoAnn and Ned Winterbottom

April 24, 2025

We continue to remember Barbara with much affection and gratitude.

PENELOPE

April 24, 2025

Remember Barb Every Day. In every atom, I breathe.The animals,trees ponds,nature. Nature . I Miss Her.

PENELOPE

April 24, 2024

One of the 2 Women in my Life. One being my Mother. That had the most beautiful & positive impact on who I´ve become. I Love & Miss Them Both & Hope they´re Enjoying cocktails where ever & watching the World Spin

Michelle Fortin

May 6, 2023

Remembering the boat ride over to visit you in Key West., the fun times and the words of wisdom you shared. You are missed, but you will always be remembered in my prayers.

JoAn Canning

April 24, 2023

Such a force to be with! Miss you Barb.

JoAnn and Ned Winterbottom

April 24, 2023

We will always remember Barb with much affection and gratitude, gratitude for not only the kindness and generosity with which she treated us but also gratitude for having had the privilege of knowing her and witnessing her exuberant spirit and zest for life.

Michelle Fortin

April 24, 2022

I cannot believe it has been 7 years since we were sharing a talk and having a few laughs. I will never forget your smile and the happiness you brought to all those in your presence. Always in my prayers.

Michelle Fortin

April 28, 2021

Dear Barbara :
Always will remember the fun times and laughter we shared. You will always be in my prayers and I am sure we will see each other once again when the calling arrives. Michelle

Kenneth McKinnon

April 24, 2021

Dear PBear : Remembering you and the fun times we shared . Still holding you in my prayers and will
catch up with you when I am called . Love you always , The Captain

Penelope Fenyvest

April 24, 2021

Barbara Was The Second Biggest Inspiration in My Life.. My Mom was First❣ I Miss Them Both Ever Day❣I See them in the woods,fields & The Sparkle in The Horses Eyes & The Pups . Always Wish They Both could’ve The Nature & Georgia

The Only Time Houdini Ever Reared,Was the Morning (Before I knew) that Barb passed ❣❣❣

Roxane Leopold

April 24, 2021

In these times of challenge and struggle for so many, we can absorb so much of her spirit and positive attitude as a catalyst for better times. She was a gem. Roxane Leopold, Atlanta

Michelle Fortin

April 24, 2020

Remembering the fun times we shared in Key West. You are missed, but you will always be remembered in my prayers.

Ken McKinnon

April 26, 2019

Dear PBear : Your Photo brings back the happy times that we shared in Key West. Love You Always. The Captain

Pamela Simmering

May 21, 2015

Her laughter will always fill our hearts . xoxo

Carole and Bill Shouldice

May 19, 2015

We have known Barb for many years and years we will treasure. Working ,partying, laughing and crying together sharing a time that we both knew would be memories.
Love Ya Poo Bear

Soychak Beverly

May 14, 2015

I had the pleasure of working for her for many years, She was the one women in the world who truley made dreams come true!!! You taught me many things but mostly that if you can imagine it you can make it happen. The memories and good times were endless after a hard days work you always made us feel like we made a difference in someones life and their smiles pailed in comparison to yours for making their Dreams come true. You will always be a light in everyones life you touched. You taught us to work harder then we could ever imagine but you also taught us how to grow from it and appreciate those momments as if they were our own. Pbear your presesnce will be eternal in the lives you touched.

JoAnn and Ned Winterbottom

May 13, 2015

Ned and I met Barb in 2007 when we were planning the first Laura's March and were looking for a place to host a luncheon for friends and family. Splash! happened to be the first place we went to inquire about the luncheon because it had been highly recommended. Of course, as soon as we got there, we fell in love with its incredible location. It was then and there that we met Barb for the first time. She was already aware of what had happened to our daughter Laura so, when we introduced ourselves, she threw her arms around each of us and gave us bear hugs. Then she sat us down and clutched my hands the entire time as we selected a menu and made all the arrangements. When we finished, we asked her if she would prefer a check or credit card. Shaking her head and literally waving off our question, she said, Sweetie, it's on me. No amount of protesting could dissuade her. We were stunned by her magnanimity, especially considering we had just met. After that day, and after the spectacular luncheon she held for us, we had many more cherished encounters with her. Barb was the epitome of generosity. However, her enormous heart was matched equally by her enormous zest for life. Barb was irrepressible. She was unique. We will miss her very much.

Christine Smart

May 8, 2015

Barb was one of a select type of people whom I have encountered in this world who had gravitational pull!!!! She had more than charisma..She was more earthy and REAL than that. I encountered her at SPLASH!. She was very frank and honest, gutsey and visionary.... What a COMBO!!! She was a Fairy Godmother who swept us away from the daily HumDrum and fed our spirits and lightened our loads. SHE MADE MAGIC! Barb will ALWAYS have a place in the hearts and memories of those who knew her. In that sense she is immortal.

Penelope Fenyvest

May 7, 2015

❤❤❤❤❤❤From Us All

Therese Sinko

May 6, 2015

I'd love to think you remember me Barb. I had dropped off my son for his first year of college and decided to take in the sunset at the lake before heading out the next day. I went down to Splash! I brought a cocktail and sat myself at a great table on the pier. You came to me and gently informed me there was a line of people waiting at the front door for this table. I of course apologized and got up to move. You said you had a better seat for me and grabbed a chair for me. You took me right out to the edge of the dock and got me another drink. when i think of Burlington I will always think of you Barb the respect and hospitality AND the best seat for the sunset. There must be a bar in heaven and Barb is running it. I will see you again my friend, with all respect

Mary Magdalene, RN

May 6, 2015

An amazing woman and a beautiful life! We are all walking each other home and I am blessed to have to have walked alongside you. You will never be forgotten. To all the wonderful family and friends in your circle of life ~ Words are so inadequate with such deep sorrow. Know my thoughts and prayers for comfort are with you.

Margaret Crowley

May 5, 2015

I will miss you Barb. You will always live in my heart and mind. You inspired me and made me laugh and all of my fond memories of you will allow me to be even further transformed by who you were. Love -Margaret

Trish Adams Mcnaull

May 3, 2015

An amazing life to be celebrated; a tremendous loss to be mourned.

Jamie Stacy

May 3, 2015

Barb will always be a part of me.

May 3, 2015

Barb will always be a part of me.

Tom Ward

May 3, 2015

Dave,
Jean and I are sorry to hear of your loss. We will keep you and the family in our prayers. Peace

Rick and Sally Kerschner

May 2, 2015

We got to know and love Barbara as her neighbors in Hinesburg from 1983 through 1988. We were fortunate to share a few of her many "Zac on the Rocks" parties and will not forget them. We would meet again occasionally over the years at events "Let's Pretend" catered for Shelburne Museum and it was always like we had just visited the day before. Barbara lived life fully and we will certainly miss her presence in this world. She brightened it.

Kay Ryder

May 2, 2015

Barb was part of the celebrations of our lifetimes----Allison and David's wedding, our 50th wedding anniversary and my 70th birthday. Her touch made each one a unique and special occasion.

We loved her hugs and smiles at Splash. No one greeted you with greater enthusiasm than Barb Bardin when she spied you by the lake.

Barb lived by the belief that each day is a gift. She was a gift to us and we will miss her. Kay H. Ryder

David Miskell

May 2, 2015

It was always a joy delivering my organic veggies to barb at her house or at splash. i would always spend a bit of time with her laughing and telling stories. She loved food and made all her events sparkle with beauty and love. I will mish her lots.

Penelope Fenyvest

May 2, 2015

The More I learned from Barb.. The Better Person I Was/Will Be! Her Love of life,Generosity & just..."Explosive Joy" I Will Embrace that! Barb Left Giant Footprints on My Heart.. I will Cherish Them, she Had Much to Do with wow I am today! 55 Years of Insanity! Cheers Barb Whatever Star you Land Upon ❤

Nancy Hedlund

May 2, 2015

RIP Barb...Thinking of the 4 short years I have known you. You were a shining light in my life with your big smile, your laugh and your witty sharp tongue. You are one hell of a LADY. God Bless.

May 1, 2015

As much as Barb lit up the room, she also had a way of making it about you when you walked in. Whether you were a client, employee or friend, she stopped what she was doing to make you feel welcomed. That is the true definition of hospitality! We all learned so much from you Barb.
- Connie Mendell

Dona Brickell

May 1, 2015

Have not seen her for a long time, When I knew her she was a funny caring person. one of the best. RIP Pooh Bear!

Kathi Cassidy David Krasner

May 1, 2015

We hadn't known Barb for long, but from the beginning, Barb seemed to welcome all with the same hospitality, joy and energy. When you saw her a second time, you felt like an old friend. Barb seemed to inspire and amaze all who spent time with her. We always left her company feeling good about life, and we fell in love with the way she embraced the excitement of every moment. Warm thoughts for friends and family she left behind.

Linda & Nick Leo

May 1, 2015

you will live in our hearts for as long as we live so many memories.
My life was so much better for having known you will always remember the Point ~ Linda & Nick

Larz Neilson

May 1, 2015

Every moment with P-Bear was special. Condolences to Gaffney & Pierre and all the human family. So sad.

Wilda & Bonnie

May 1, 2015

We will miss a joy filled friend! We're sure she will shake things up in Heaven!

Paula Tilas

May 1, 2015

You lit up St John my Friend !
Keep on Laughing Beautiful Barb !

Wayne Bell

May 1, 2015

We wish you, P-Bears family, comfort in the knowledge that she lived such a charismatic and full life. We always remember her in conversations about extraordinary moments in Manchester. She inspired us all to live life to the fullest. For this we thank her and we thank you.
Blessings and best,
Tara and Wayne Bell

Ramona Solari

May 1, 2015

She really knew how to light up a room. Had such a wonderful smile and made everyone laugh. You will be missed deeply. R.I.P my dear friend.

May 1, 2015

I never met Barbara, but my dad was in the VT Respite House when she was there. I observed her wonderful, loving family there every day. It was clear she was so loved.
God bless --
Tracy Chandler French

Lisa Marchetti

May 1, 2015

We will always love you in your outrageousness, and for your very kind heart! Lisa and Harry

Anne

May 1, 2015

Words can not express the ache in my heart. I love you Barb and miss you beyond comprehension.

Becky Cassel

May 1, 2015

I recall so many times being with Barb and laughing, laughing , laughing until you couldn't breathe and then she would either say or do something to make me laugh even more. She was a gift to the world and brought happiness and cheer to everyone who had the privilege of connecting with her. Rest in peace my friend.

Lauren Bryant

May 1, 2015

Barb's zest for life will always be remembered. She ltruly lived her life fully. There is indeed a void in this world.

Peter Clavelle

May 1, 2015

From Albania, I'm having fond memories of Barb. We negotiated the first deal for Splash. She never let the City down. She created a space enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Barb's spirit, love of life, and contributions to a vibrant waterfront will be long remembered.

Lynn L Holton

May 1, 2015

I know you will make a difference where you are

Walt osmer

April 30, 2015

We'll get together again save the last dance for me. Lov ya hun.

Patty Pittala

April 30, 2015

Whenever our paths crossed in our business events, you were always so kind and helpful and encouraging to me. Your creativity and energy is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing your love with us all!

Erik Johnson

April 30, 2015

What can I say, Barb?
The definition of fearlessness is NOT never being scared; it is not letting fear stop you from moving forward, and living. Barb, you were fearless! In all ways, you were a beacon of light to the people around you. Even when you were sick, even when you felt awful, you always had a smile for friends and strangers alike. You were always full of life, and you lived completely. In 20 years working with sick people, with people who too often had cancer, I never saw anyone stronger, or braver. And that's saying something, 'cos cancer patients are so strong and so brave, they put me to shame. Your smile lit up Splash (and everywhere else you were) and your laugh filled all of the air, bringing it to life. All of us thought the world of you: Lily, Rachel, my Mom, and I; and we held a lot of love in our hearts for you. It wasn't the food and drink that kept us coming back to Splash over and over again, until we might as well have just signed all our paychecks over to you; it was you, and the way you made everyone feel good, and alive. I mourn your leaving here, though I believe with all my heart you are in a great place, and no longer in pain. And when I get to the hereafter, I hope you've got a restaurant there, so we can sit down and laugh over some drinks. Hopefully not for another fifty or sixty years, but when it's time!
You were wonderful, you were loved, and you will be missed for a loooong time. You made a big impact on the people who knew you, and that crater that has been left won't be filled quickly.

JoAn Canning

April 30, 2015

Not a long time friend but her vigor for life fun and connection to people was infectious.
I will miss you Barb. Just got back from St. John where you are definitely famous and will be missed......JoAn Canning

Roxane and Jonathan Leopold

April 30, 2015

The author of the obituary deserves a toast with champagne. It captured the woman, the chutzpah, the energy, the verve, the legacy and the indomitable spirit. We were lucky enough to be embraced by so much of that life.

Love, Roxane and Jonathan

Michelle Fortin

April 30, 2015

Dear Bardi:
Although I only knew Barbara for a short time, I always looked forward to riding the boat over to see her. She was always a joy to be around, and I will never forget the laughs we had on our visits together. She will always be in my heart and prayers, as you all will as well.

Michael Crowley

April 30, 2015

Summer at the waterfront will not be same without you Barb. Whether it was a laughing over something crazy, or crying over another rainy day and having to shutdown again. It was always a pleasure having you around. I'll miss you...

Capt. Mike
Whistling Man Schooner

Ice Cream Bob

April 30, 2015

I lost a dear friend on the waterfront. Barb and I had a special relationship. Our support for each other was like no other. She has always been my number one fan. You will be in my heart always. Love you dearly.

Sue Lindberg

April 30, 2015

Larger than life, smiles, hugs, sunshine, spirits, and sunsets. Rest in peace Barbara~

Jeremy Silansky

April 30, 2015

One of the heaviest hitters in the history of Vermont conviviality. R.I.P Barb!

Julia Sawabini

April 30, 2015

What a special person Barbara was. She catered the reception at Mom's funeral and she made customer cookies. She knew Mom loved crossword puzzles and Paris - and the cookies were amazing - a crossword with great words spelled out and the eiffel tower. Such creativity and love went into everything she did. She will be missed by all but I know my Mom will be happy to share Happy Hour with her from now on.

Rebecca Welch

April 30, 2015

We love you to the moon and back! You will forever be with all of us. Thank you Barb!

Tracy Boutin

April 30, 2015

We worked side by side on Church street and then became neighbors on Lakeview terrace. You always had a smile and a funny remark for everything. I will miss you my friend, the world has lost a very special lady!

Susan Parry

April 30, 2015

You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough. Mae West
Barb did it right!
Till we meet again Sister.....

S Sawabi

April 30, 2015

Oh my gosh! Barbara, you were amazing I will never forget how you loved and were loved by my family. You touched us at our core and we relished every moment you did! Thank you!

Meredith Neary

April 30, 2015

The world is a little less bright without you in it. Other than marrying Mike, the best wedding decision I made was having you as my caterer! Over 10 years later and people still rave about it! Love you and miss you.

Tony Perry

April 30, 2015

Your smile felt like sunshine

Ken McKinnon

April 30, 2015

Dear Bardi: So sad to hear this news. You are forever in my prayers. Love you always. "Smokin"

April 30, 2015

WOW I just read her story in Burlington's Women newspaper about her struggle with this dreaded disease. I also had read her previous interview in the same paper. May God Speed love Marie Farnsworth

AKR

April 30, 2015

So glad we made the right catering choice years ago. Our lives have been the richer for it. Will miss your wonderful hugs and amazing spirit, which you shared with all.

April 30, 2015

I can't imagine the sadness you must be feeling from your loss.May the Bardin family and friends find strength and comfort during this distressing time at Romans 12:12.

Real masson

April 30, 2015

Sad to have lost such a wonderful person and soul. Her spirit will definitely make heaven brighter.

Bob Stannard

April 30, 2015

Sail on my friend ( and almost 1/2 sister)

Johnnie McLaughlin

April 30, 2015

We will miss that Big Smile and Laugh!

Louise Lintilhac

April 30, 2015

I will never forget your smile and the light your brought to everything you did.

April 30, 2015

You will remain in our hearts and souls forever! We love you!! Barb & Jenn

Glen FIndholt

April 30, 2015

If you happen to be sitting at the SW corner of the bar at Splash and there is a guy staring at you, fret not. It will be me, imagining that Barb is sitting there as she so often did, holding court. We will never forget you, PBear. Rest in peace.

Jim Buran

April 30, 2015

Barb: I don't know what I am going to do without you. You have been such a good friend and supporter of me. I always felt welcome and embraced in your presence. Jim Buran

pat rodar

April 30, 2015

A life well lived, not wasting a minute.It was an honor to know Barb. Her impact on the lives she touched will continue to be felt for a long long time.

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