Barbara Ann "Barb" Celizic

To Barbara Celizic, a gift was never just a gift-it was a reflection of her heart. A handpicked trinket, a thoughtful card, a simple gesture-all wrapped in kindness and given with love. But little did Barb know, she was the true gift. A gift to her family. A gift to her friends. A gift to this world.
Barbara Celizic passed peacefully into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Friday, October 3, 2025, following a courageous and grace-filled battle with cancer. She was 75.
Born December 9, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Joseph and Josephine (Mares) Nemecek, Barb was a proud graduate of Eastlake North High School. She graduated from Lakeland Community College, where she earned her degree in merchandise management. It was a path that brought her to a fulfilling 45-year career in retail, where she served as a dedicated department manager for both the May Company and Macy's.
It all began with a quick glance across a restaurant in Mentor-Barb noticed Charles Celizic, and he never let her go. The two were married on May 19, 1973, beginning a 52-year journey filled with unwavering love, wisdom, and quiet acts of devotion. Whether attending concerts or navigating life's uncertainties, Barb and Charlie were side by side-always.
Barb lived life with a joyful rhythm. She loved all music including country music, and artists Cher, Pitbull, and The Rolling Stones to name just a few. If there was a concert, Barb was there, enjoying her evening with Charlie. She attended over 100 NASCAR races and held season tickets to Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course, loving the thrill of the track and the roar of the engines.
Yet for all the bright lights and big sounds, Barb's favorite moments were those spent showing up for others. Whether driving across Ohio to cheer on nieces and nephews, planning the next family gathering, or finding the perfect gift "just because," she lived not for herself, but for those she loved.
Barb leaves behind her devoted husband and lifelong teammate, Charles Celizic of Mansfield; nephew Jeff (Jenny) Kuczek and niece Laura Rossi; sister-in-law Margaret Sinnott; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; her beloved fur baby, Suzie.
Along with her parents she is now reunited with her sister and brother-in-law Pat and John Kuczek; father-in-law and mother-in-law Carl and Louise Celizic; brother-in-law Mike Celizic; and her treasured dogs Flash, Cody, Toby, and Diamond.
Family and friends are invited to honor Barb's life at the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. Visitation will be held Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 4-6:30 pm where a Memorial Mass will follow at 6:30 pm. Barbara will be laid to rest at Williams Cemetery in Leroy Township at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Richland County Humane Society, reflecting Barb's lifelong love of animals.