Barbara "Barb" Ann Blitzen

Barbara Ann Blitzen, fondly known as Barb, passed away peacefully on July 10th, 2025, at the age of 82. She was born on January 25th, 1943 in Chicago, IL. Barb is survived by her two children: Pam Badzioch, and John (Janet) Burgmeier; her three grandchildren: Jennifer (Charlie) Parkinson, Stephanie Badzioch, and Kristen Badzioch; her three great-grandchildren: Emily, Frankie, and Teddy.

Barb is preceded in death by her brother: Daniel Noon; and her husband, Robert, with whom she was married for 33 years. In the years following, Barb shared seven wonderful years of love and companionship with Philip Bieri, who survives her.

Barb’s greatest joy in life was being a Grandma. She was a steady presence in her grandkids’ lives, attending all of their school plays, band concerts, and sporting events. Barb’s second greatest passion was racquetball, a sport she played for over 20 years. She held her own playing in a men’s league, something she always took great pride in.

For decades, summers often centered around Barb’s backyard pool where she enjoyed hosting barbecues with family and friends. Professionally, Barb spent 20 years as a teacher’s aide at Kirk School, where she supported students with special needs—a role she loved and found deeply fulfilling. Barb’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to living her best life; her memory will live on forever in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her.

A visitation for Barb will be held Thursday, July 17th, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Glueckert Funeral Home, located at 1520 N Arlington Heights Rd in Arlington Heights, IL 60004. At 5:00 PM, family and friends will have the opportunity to give eulogies and share their memories.