Barbara Helen Carl

Barbara was born May 1, 1943 in Aberdeen, Washington to Glenn and Elsie Green. She attended Weatherwax High School and earned her teaching degree from Western Washington University in Bellingham. She married her husband of 55 years, Charles “Chuck” Carl, in 1966. She was a wonderful, dedicated mother to two children, Julie and Michael, driving many carpools in her VW Beetle and keeping an open door to welcome family and friends. Barb also had a special bond with her grandchildren, having spent many days together playing in the park, going to the library, and digging in the yard.

She was a primary school teacher in Federal Way, Yakima and Beaverton, eventually retiring as a highly regarded third-grade teacher at Bethany Elementary School. Barb loved kids, and kids loved her.

Barb enjoyed being outdoors year-round, getting fresh air while mowing the lawn, raking leaves, and gardening. She logged countless miles walking and bicycling from Cedar Hills to Rock Creek, making many friends along her regular routes. To some of the neighborhood children, she was known as “Walking Barb.”

She followed sports of all kinds, rarely missing her grandkids’ games, no matter the season. Barb and Chuck were UW Husky season ticket holders for many years and regularly tuned in to watch the Portland Trailblazers and OSU Beavers. Win or lose, she loved the game, and was a champion of any underdog.

Being near the ocean brought Barb much joy. Napili Bay, Maui was an annual destination for two recent decades, returning to the same area she and Chuck honeymooned. Together, they had a cabin at Ocean Park, WA for over 20 years. It was one of her favorite spots for walking, beach combing, doing puzzles, and enjoying family. She spent many hours playing in the dunes with her grandkids and always had fresh doughnuts on the counter for a treat. Barb was an avid and expert razor clam digger.

Many will fondly remember Barb as a kind and happy person who was genuinely interested in the well-being of those around her. Her humble and gracious nature will be missed. She is survived by husband Chuck Carl, daughter Julie (Todd) Tolboe, son Mike (Isla) Carl, grandchildren Parker and Peyton Tolboe, and brother John Green.

At her request, a private family celebration will be planned for a later date.

In remembrance of Barbara’s life, the family asks that memorial gifts be made to the Providence Children’s Health Foundation in support of the Center for Medically Fragile Children. Gifts can be mailed to the Providence Children’s Health Foundation at 830 NE 47thAvenue, Portland, OR 97213 or online at www.providencefoundation.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.finleysunsethills.com for the Carl family.