Barb was the beloved daughter of the late Margaret and Wilbur Pepple and sister to Terry Zink (Herb) and Sally Lucus (Jim). After graduating from Notre Dame Academy and then from St. Vincent Charity Hospital School of Nursing in 1947, she began her career at Crile hospital, where she was an intelligent and compassionate nurse. In 1948, she married the love of her life, a young carpenter named Tom. Two years later, they built their first home in Fairview Park where they raised their 8 children: Tom (Nancy), Jim-deceased (Eileen), Mary Jo Lammers (Tom), Joe (Colleen), Mike (Sandy), Marty (Anne), Peg Homyak (Mark) and Barb Kuemerle (Glenn). Her legacy lives on with her 28 grandchildren and 35 (and counting) great-grandchildren with whom she had an abundant love for and was actively involved in their lives. Affectionately known as Aunt Babs, she was a favorite to her many nieces and nephews.
When her children were young, Barb volunteered extensively at the St. Angela cafeteria and school library. After raising her family, Barb returned to nursing at the age of 52. She worked with Psychiatric patients at St. John’s hospital in Cleveland, which was her passion. When the hospital closed, she moved to Serenity Hall at St. John’s Westshore and worked for several more years before retiring. She kept active during her retirement, being an awesome grandmother and great-grandmother. She also greatly enjoyed annual vacations in Siesta Key FL as well as taking trips across the nation and to Europe well into her 90’s. She was the consummate caregiver to her husband Tom throughout his journey with Alzheimer’s. After his passing, Barb continued to learn and connect with others. She was an avid reader, enrolled in community college courses, did water aerobics, and regularly volunteered with the American Red Cross and at Fairview Hospital, where she met her dear friend, Jim Gartland.
Barb’s greatest joy was her love for her family and friends. She was known for her warm smile, generosity and eternal optimism. She truly was loved by all. She set a tremendous example of a life well-lived.
Friends may call at Corrigan Craciun Funeral Home 20820 Lorain Rd Fairview Park Wednesday, December 3rd from 3-7pm. A funeral mass will be held at her home parish of 75 years, St. Angela Merici 20970 Lorain Rd. Fairview Park, Ohio on Thursday, December 4th at 10am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the St. Edward High School Edwardian Players 13500 Detroit Ave. Lakewood, Ohio 44107.
