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BARBARA AALTO Obituary

AALTO, Barbara P. (Phillips) Professor Emerita, Stonehill College. Longtime Bridgewater and later Auburndale resident, passed away unexpectedly at home in Lasell Village on February 11, 2012 after a brief illness, just short of her 88th birthday. Barbara is remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, professional colleague and community volunteer. She is preceded in death by her husband Ensio Emil Aalto of Brooklyn, NY and her sister Ruth Hunt of Williamsburg, VA. She is survived by daughter Laura of Medford, OR; son Eric (& grandchildren Macy, Emerson) of San Diego, CA; daughter Anne (& fiance Daren Harvey) of Woodstock, CT; sister Constance Phillips of S. Weymouth, MA; as well as numerous family and friends across the country and world. Her life journey began in Easthampton and Quincy; traversing the U.S. with stops in Maine, Massachusetts, Virginia, Minnesota, California and Ohio; before returning to the Bay State. A dedicated learner and educator, Barbara achieved a BA from Bates College, a MA from Boston University and a PhD from the University of Minnesota, where she met her life partner Ensio. While raising three beloved children and pursuing professional careers in psychology, they shared interests in dancing, the arts, international travel and Finnish culture - activities Barbara pursued with zest until only recently. Academia was Barbara's calling, culminating in designation as Professor Emerita after a 35 year career (6 as dept chair) at Stonehill College in Easton. Upon retirement she continued educational pursuits, love of dancing and the arts, and dedication to volunteerism as an original resident and 12 year member of Lasell Village, a living & learning community at Lasell College in Auburndale. Per Barbara's wishes, a celebratory musical program is being held in her honor. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Barbara's memory to the Professor Barbara Aalto Scholarship Fund for psychology students: c/o Stonehill College, Office of Development, 320 Washington St, Easton, MA 02357. Or to the Lasell Village Benevolent Fund: c/o Paula Panchuck, 120 Seminary Ave, Auburndale, MA 02466. Family may be contacted directly at her former home: 125B Seminary Ave, #326, Auburndale, MA 02466. To share a memory or offer condolences please visit www.joycefuneralhome.com

Published by Boston Globe from Mar. 3 to Mar. 4, 2012.
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Memories and Condolences
for BARBARA AALTO

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My heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Barbara Aalto, the teacher who introduced me to the field of psychology and supported me in my academic journey. I fondly remember my classes and talks with her, and her legacy lives on in her many, many students like me.

Sincerely,

(Dr.) Bob Bonfiglio
Stonehill College '76

March 22, 2012

My sincere condolences to the Aalto family. - Psalms 55:22

BP

March 14, 2012

It can be so hard to face the first year without your loved one, but the love of family and friends can carry you through.

Nikki

March 10, 2012

Laura, Eric & Anne
So sad to hear of your mom's passing. She was such an inspiration to so many people and a true example of what a woman could achieve when it wasn't yet the norm to be a working mom. I have many fond memories of her and all of you from the house on Rowayne Park when I babysat the three of you when you were little....Bobbi Large (Roberta Swallow)

March 6, 2012

Dear Laura,
I remember visiting your house when we were in high school. Radio turned up, your parents jitterbugging across the black and white tiled kitchen floor and your Welsh terrier, Galton, chasing at their heels. They both seemed to be so full of joy about life. I hope you and your family are well.
Janice Crotty
Cambridge, MA

March 5, 2012

May the God of tender mercie's be with during this sorrowful time(2 corinth.1:2-3)

March 5, 2012

To the family:

May  God, the "Hearer of prayer", comfort you during this difficult time. (Psalms 65:2)

March 5, 2012

My condolences to your family for your loss. I pray you find comfort in reading some of God's promises.

Vanessa

March 5, 2012

Dear Laura,
My sympathy to you on the loss of your wonderful mother.
I fondly remember her helping us with a Finnish flag for our Girl Scout regional assembly many years ago.
Sincerely,
Nancy

Nancy Reed Imai

March 4, 2012

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