Barbara Ann Sterenberg

Barbara. Strong yet gentle. Bold yet peaceful. Generous, encouraging, and fun-loving. An intent listener, always wanting to learn the latest news in others’ lives. A wise advisor, quietly offering suggestions. Also known as “The Queen” or “The Management,” her raised first finger summoned attention.

Barbara was born in Wilkinsburg, PA, to the late Carl Sr. and Eleanore (Horsthemke) Guckelberger. She is survived by her husband, Frank, of Hinckley; daughter, Juli (Kevin) Glaser of Marion, IN; and brothers Carl Jr. “Boo” of Kent, OH; David (Valiree) of Brownsville, MN; and Eric of Bath, OH. She was a special aunt to three nieces, a nephew, and their families. She was preceded in death by her sister, Betsy (Ted) Welser of Kent, and her dear friend Judy Saxman.

Barbara and Frank met at Richfield Elementary and graduated from Revere High School in 1959. She played clarinet and glockenspiel in the Revere band. They dated in college; Barbara transferring from Muskingum University to Miami (OH) University to be closer to Frank. She graduated with a BS in Education in the honors program in 1963. They married on April 11, 1964. Their unmatched hospitality brought family and friends together for countless unforgettable times in Ohio, Michigan, and the Florida Keys.

One of her main goals for Juli (and any youngster) was to teach them what they needed to know, then let them fly, hopefully with a good life partner. She could not have been happier to have Kevin as her son-in-law.

Frank always says, “She raised the best kids and dogs.” Juli’s friends were always included and we recently learned that her grand plan was for them to form a life-long bond. This group of seven remains close and truly grateful 50+ years later.

Her favorite pastimes included reading, gardening, cooking, and researching anything on her tablet. She could swim like a fish, and was a graceful skier (water and snow). Her true joy for teaching spanned three years of fifth grade at Richfield Elementary, 13 years of preschool at Gingerbread House, and as a tutor. Early jobs included swim teacher and lifeguard. She retired as a receptionist (no typing, mind you) at Old Trail School where she continued to enjoy interacting with students. She made a tremendous impact on so many, as they did in return.

Other passions were snowy winters (2024-2025 was a favorite), thunderstorms, sunshine, and sparkly things! Her closet held everything from the makings of an award-winning Halloween costume to stunning outfits fit for “The Queen.”

Barbara truly lived a full, beautiful life! She quietly managed chronic health issues, including the latest sudden lung disease. She always awoke with a beautiful smile, and shared it to her last day. Her friends and family provided the most amazing support over the past three weeks. Their visits, calls, flowers, notes, stories, hugs, and prayers meant more than words can say. There could hardly have been a better tribute to the joy, love, and support that she shared with all of us.

Contributions in Barbara’s memory may be made to Hinckley Fire & Rescue, 1616 Ridge Road, Hinckley, OH 44233, or to your favorite animal shelter.

Heartfelt thanks to the team at Cleveland Clinic/Akron General Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center.

A celebration of her life is not scheduled at this time. She would love for you to get a jar of bubbles with a wand, and fill the air with beautiful bubbles.