Barbara Shaeffer

Barbara Jeanne Shaeffer, 98, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. Born on March 30, 1927, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Barbara lived a long and vibrant life marked by dedication to her work, her family, and the city she loved.

Barbara began her professional journey with the YMCA of the USA in the 1980s as an Administrative Assistant. Her exceptional organizational skills and natural leadership quickly propelled her to the role of Director of Administration. Known as the go-to person for anything involving logistics, she was a master planner whose influence helped shape the national headquarters of Y-USA in Chicago. As one of the first staff members at that location, she also became the association’s unofficial historian—preserving its legacy while helping to build its future.

Her passion for learning and sharing knowledge continued well into retirement. Barbara enrolled in Lifelong Learning classes at Northwestern University, where her enthusiasm soon led her to co-lead a theater class. The class became so popular it had to be doubled in size to accommodate all who wanted to join. When Northwestern launched its “super ager” study for high-functioning octogenarians, Barbara ranked at the top—an achievement that surprised no one who knew her.

Barbara’s zest for life extended far beyond academics. She was a beloved fixture in Chicago’s cultural scene and could always be counted on for recommendations on restaurants, bars, theaters, or entertainment venues. Her love for the city was evident in everything she did—including volunteering as a docent at Millennium Park when it first opened.

She cherished time spent with “The Girl Graduates” and “The Ladies Who Lunch,” groups of dear friends who shared laughter and companionship over many years. Her friendships from both her YMCA days and Northwestern years remained close to her heart throughout her life.

Barbara is survived by her children David and Jim Heyman; daughters-in-law Esther and Gina Heyman; grandchildren Alex and Justin Heyman; as well as many nieces, nephews, and “cousins”—a term she used affectionately and broadly to describe those she held dear.

She was predeceased by her first husband Ervin Heyman and her second husband Edward Shaeffer. She loved them both dearly—and that love was deeply reciprocated.

Those who knew Barbara often said she was “the person I want to be like when I get older.” She will be remembered not only for her beauty, intelligence, and graciousness but most of all for her unwaveringly positive attitude toward life and the deep love she shared with family and friends.

May her memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on February 7, 2026, from 12:30 PM to 04:00 PM at The Buckingham Condominium Hospitality Room 360 E. Randolph St. There is underground parking in the building, parking stickers for free parking will be provided.