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Barbara Freedman Obituary
Freedman
From the age of four, Barbara had always said she would be a mother. And did she ever attain that goal!
Whether as a biological or foster or adoptive or surrogate, Barbara filled a vital role in so many lives as a mother, grandmother or nurturing loved one.
Barbara was a licensed counselor, social worker and marriage and family therapist, practicing over 30 years in the Akron area. She will be deeply missed, yet often celebrated, to all of those who benefited from her skills as a professional.
Born Barbara Jean Zapiler to Irving and Hannah Zapiler, Barbara is survived by beloved sons, Joshua Seth of Florida, Jeremiah (Deanna) Freedman of Hudson and Matthew Freedman of Akron; eight grandchildren; and her husband Thomas Bagiackas, her companion for more than 43 years; along with the countless souls of the lives she touched as a mom, a friend and a therapist.
Memorial services are at Gordon-Flurry Memorial Home, 1260 Collier Rd., in Akron at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 4, 2018. Graveside to follow at Rose Hill Burial Park and Shiva will be held at 4680 Edson Road, Brimfield from 4 to 6 p.m.
Donations may be made in Barbara's honor to The Gorilla Foundation at koko.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Freedman
Sponsored by Akron Beacon Journal.
4 Entries
Karen McEwan
April 29, 2020
Barbara told me there's always a gift for you in adversity.
Edna Williams
July 11, 2018
I just heard today and was shocked...If anyone embodied a joyous life and a giving to others, it was Barbara...She was my counselor through several major events and had the ability to sort our a plan that suited who I was...She had a gift and I was a beneficiary of her counsel many times. She will be remembered....
Steve Engelman
May 16, 2018
I was fortunate to have had Barbara enter my life more than 20 years ago. She helped me immensely, as my therapist, and grew to become a dear friend. Barbara was such an incredibly gifted person, with a unique wisdom combined with uncanny listening skills, that made me feel understood, appreciated and loved. I am deeply saddened that she is gone but truly blessed to have known her and will definitely never forget her. She will remain in my thoughts and prayers for the rest of my life.
Dianna Garson
May 4, 2018
I was very lucky in my life to have had Barbara as my therapist for nearly 20 years. She was brilliant. She was intuitive beyond belief. She helped me grow. We laughed and cried. I feel sick that I never formally told her how much she meant to me. My heart is broken and I can only imagine how Thomas & her family are feeling. What a loss.
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