Barbara R. Brebner

Barbara Robin Brebner was reunited in heaven with her loving parents on November 16, 2025. She died peacefully at Blue Jay Springs (a long-term care facility in Green Bay). Barbara was born in Green Bay on November 21, 1956, to John Palle Brebner and Mary Beth (Schaeffer) Brebner both of whom preceded her in death.
Barbara had a wonderful childhood, going on many family trips and summers spent at the family cottage in Egg Harbor - a place which Barbara adored. She graduated from De Pere High School in 1974. Barbara was an avid birdwatcher and loved nature. She studied ornithology and environmentalism at UW Green Bay. Barbara was also very creative and worked in video production, including work in commercials, location scouting, craft service, and work as a production assistant. Two notable local productions were "That 70's Show" (where she did location scouting so producers could get an idea about Wisconsin in the 1970's) and the Tim McGraw country music video - "When the Stars Go Blue" (Filmed on Moonshine Hill Road in Middle Inlet, Wisconsin in 2006). Her passion however was always birding. She owned 'For the Birds' in two locations in Door County and finally moved the store to De Pere, Wisconsin.
If any single word definition of Barbara could be made to describe her it would be - kindness. She made friends wherever she went - many becoming lifelong. She loved animals and had a "menagerie" of cats and dogs (four cats and two dogs at one time)! Also, Barbara loved horses, whether playing with other horse kids at the barn or dressing up and competing. She became an accomplished equestrienne and won trophies at many of the events she attended.
Barbara is survived by her husband Gerald Steven (O'Brien) Brebner, sisters Lynn Brebner, Elizabeth (Dennis) Knackstedt, Pamela (Gary) Frost, nephew Craig Andersen, nieces Elsa Knackstedt, Anna Knackstedt, Mary E. Frost and Julie (Frank) Holmes and their children Frank and Melia Lynn. She is also survived by dear friend and former brother-in-law Craig L. Andersen - his visits with Barbara meant the world to her.
Family and friends may call on Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth St., De Pere, WI 54115 from 4:00p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, 2025. A brief Memorial Service performed by Union Congregational Church will begin at 6:00 p.m. A celebration of Barbara's life will also be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Happily Ever After animal shelter.