Barbara Sue Lose

She was a kind and thoughtful soul who was beloved by her family and friends alike. She was generous with her love to all she knew.

Her true passion was as an artist. At the age of 38 as a mother of two, she applied and was accepted into the Ringling School of Art & Design. She studied graphic design and was an elected member of the student leadership committee. She later enjoyed working as an interior designer. She eventually took her love of the holidays and put it into her store “The Christmas Shoppe”. The store was a fixture on Tamiami Trail for years, with the large Santa and sleigh on the roof greeting visitors. Barbara was also active in her community as a member of Junior League and PTA. She loved spending time with her family. She also enjoyed outdoor activities with her husband and sons. Camping, boating, canoeing, wildlife photography, and even riding motorcycles.

Barbara is preceded in death by the love of her life and companion Dr. George William Lose, of Sarasota, FL; her parents, Lawrence Edward Fierstos, and Ethel Mae Fierstos, of Massillon, OH. She is survived by her children, Steven Scott Lose (Denise), of Sarasota, FL, and Gregory Alan Lose (Kristina), of Clinton, NY; grandchildren, Hanna Grace Lose; siblings, Richard (dec'd) & Kathy Fierstos; William (dec'd) & Florene Fierstos (dec'd); James (dec'd) & Polly Fierstos; Rudy (dec'd) & June Scheiderer; Larry (dec'd) & Paula Fierstos; and John & Beverly (dec'd) Fierstos; in-laws, Louis (dec’d) & Cheryl Myers. She is also loved by her many nieces & nephews and great nieces & great nephews.

Barbara was a brave and strong woman, who was the rock of her family. She was a proud 10-year survivor of stage three breast cancer. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. "To be absent from the body is to be present with God."

Services will be held privately.