BARBARA ELIZABETH PETERSON
BARBARA ELIZABETH PETERSON
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BARBARA PETERSON Obituary
Babs passed at home, suddenly and painlessly, on April 6, her 61st birthday. ALS ended her hiking days, but could not undo her beat-you-to-the-top-spirit. Remember her as 62" of speed walking energy, always looking forward to another JFK 50 miler or 34 mile Rachel Carson Trail day or ... Born in Bellefonte, Babs became a long-time Regent Square resident of Pittsburgh. Work, school, and professional goals were far less important than friends and helping others, and she loved to read. This is the person she was: She took in the pregnant cat that nobody wanted. When the litter was born, she couldn't separate the kittens from the mother, so she kept them all, for 16 years or so. Babs treated her friends with the same loyalty and care. Barbara will be cremated privately, with no formal viewing or funeral services. In lieu of flowers or contributions, Babs would have you walk, anywhere, with family or friends or strangers - work those unused muscles and enjoy a good day outside, rain or shine. Get extra credit if the trail is rocky, muddy, or goat-level steep. Do it, for you and Babs. Arrangements are under the direction of WETZLER FUNERAL SERVICE, INC. in Bellefonte.
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Kenn Howard
June 21, 2010
Did you ever watch the way Barb walked? She had a smooth, purposeful gait, getting things done, clear on her goals. That’s the way she lived her life. It was always a pleasure to talk with her and hear about her plans and experiences. We do miss her.
Pat Lyle
April 14, 2010
I didnt know Barb, but I was touched by her obituary. ALS ended my husband's hiking days, too and he passed away in December. I'm going to take a walk in Barb's honor because I know what she has endured. You have my sympathy and I share your sorrow.
love to Babs from your extended family xoxo
April 14, 2010
Gina Deighan
April 12, 2010
I knew Barbie from working at Alcoa. She truly was one of a kind. I remember the time we had a Valentine's Day party and she sent my husband at the time a "singing telegram" that turned out to be a male stripper - everyone got a hoot out of that and he ended up being Barb's date at the party - we had many memorable times together. She truly danced to a different drummer! Though I have not seen her for over 20 years, I will not forget her. She was truly special and may she rest in peace.
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Jo-Ellen Asbury
April 11, 2010
I met Barbara in a dance class in Oakland in the early 1980s. She was was indeed a ball of fire and a happy person, as others have already noted. I also found that she had a perpetually young spirit, and I am proud to have called her a friend. She will be missed.
Tom Chew
April 11, 2010
Didn't know Barb well myself, but my brother Dan and I always appreciate help with the bike events that she happily gave. We hiked 15km in a hilly section of Hong Kong today including some vertical roped rock climbing that might have earned extra points on her scale.
Condolences from Tom Chew
Nancy "Cheryl" Francis - Stultz
April 9, 2010
Darn, darn, darn, I tried for many years to find Barb or as we did all know her in high school as Pete. We were mistaken for each other by our Doctor (Rogers). I almost got a shot that Pete was suppose to have. Luckily the nurses and his sister Kitty straighten him out before the dreaded deed was done. I will miss her even though I haven't seen or talked to her since we were in high school. She was a ball of fire. I will also take a long walk and remember my friend. May you rest in peace.
R & C
April 9, 2010
Walked three miles yesterday morning, while the air was still cool. The birds were singing, welcoming another day of our summer-like weather. The evening before, two hawks soared above our house, and our neighbor pointed out three very little bear cubs that were high in a tree. The streams run swift and strong from all of the recent rains,cutting even more new channels for the water's flow. Life is full of changes. But one thing that will never change is our love for you, Babs.
Kelli Ball
April 8, 2010
What a beautiful inspiration to us all. When you read the words that decribed her life you realize that she was blessed in ways some will never know despite the outcome. Babs embraced life and will always be remembered for that. My thoughts and prayers are with Steve and family and I will certainly join in a walk to celebrate her life.
Molly Anderson Peterson
April 8, 2010
I have not seen Barb in many years but like my classmates will remember her as a fun loving, upbeat, never forgot to say hello person. I will be taking a hike in the beautiful Northwest in her honor and memory.
Stroade & Dottie Shay
April 8, 2010
'Dottie 'n I recall Barbara when she was a pre-schooler, and her folks owned the Brockerhoff Hotel. Dottie baby sat her back then. I was working parttime after highschool, and I would see her running around in the hotel. Neither of us can recall when we saw her last. May Barbara rest in Peace!
Stroade & Dottie Shay
Pensacola, FL
Betty Wojnar
April 8, 2010
Babs was a fun person to be around. I remember when I came to Borders to have an interview, she was at the information desk doing an Irish jig dance...It was great. Such a happy person that brought a smile to my face. She is an inspiration to me and so many others. Thank You Babs!
Tom
April 8, 2010
I knew Barb from Alcoa and we had a very good friendship. She was full of energy and was a genuine, good person. I haven't seen her since my wedding in '94, so I'm especially sad to hear of her passing. I'll remember the memories...
Susan Harrison
April 8, 2010
As a BHS classmate, I remember her most from those days rambling around Bellefonte and walking everywhere. We called her "Pete" in those days or Barb. Bundle of energy is an understatement and never meeting a stranger has kept her in all our hearts and minds. Her heart was bigger that her frame would suggest. She will be missed, but not ever forgotten!!!
John Davis
April 8, 2010
Her body may have failed but that energy and that spirit... It will be a while before the Universe can absorb all of that. So, yes, let's take advantage of it and celebrate!
Vickie Milton Henry
April 8, 2010
Steve
You described our "Babs" completely. I'll never sing "Stop in the name of love" without having her image in mind. Or forget the day she was the first to wear a mini-skirt to school, and get escorted to the principal's office (with a huge smile on her face) She was a peach. A ball of fire. A great friend. Even when I saw her with her ailing body--those eyes still "danced". I loved that girl.
Vickie Milton Henry-BHS Cl 67
PST
April 8, 2010
I dont know what made me read this particular obit. I didnt know her. I do have Multiple Sclerosis & love to hike, so for Babs, I will walk an extra few miles today in rememberance of her. I'll say a little prayer too. She must of been a very special person.
Jim Kerschner
April 8, 2010
Steve,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Barb was a great friend and I will miss her very much. Thank you again for all you did for her.
Jim
Tracy Linza
April 8, 2010
This is shocking news. I'm so glad to known Babs. I first met her inline skating and then of course, at the Cathedral steps and more recently on the Rachel Carson Trail. Babs will be sorely missed.
Tracy Linza
Chuck Snyder
April 8, 2010
My condolences during this time of sorrow. Barb was a friend to all and will be missed by all who have known her.
Jonathan Gates
April 8, 2010
Worked with Babs at Borders Books from '95-'98. We took turns making smart remarks to each other. Indoor sport. Lightening fast, she was. Mailed her a letter of concern about a yr ago not expecting or getting a reply. perhaps the wrong address. I will definitely take the walk the obit author recommends.
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