Barbara Ellen Nevel

Born on July 27, 1936, to Samuel Townsend and Ida Wayne Townsend (formerly Kuemerle), Barbara grew up in Canton and graduated from Canton South High School. She went on to have a long and dedicated career at Timken Roller Bearing, where she worked for 31 years.

Barbara was a beloved member of the Canton senior community. She was actively involved at the Canton Senior Center, where she enjoyed the camaraderie and competition of three separate card clubs. Her commitment to service was recognized nationally when she received the Presidential Award for Volunteerism from President George W. Bush, an honor that reflected her deep compassion and tireless generosity.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Ida; her brothers Samuel (wife Ladyne), Richard (wife Lora), James (wife Laverne), and Edward; and her sister Zelda Meese (husband Jesse).

Barbara is survived by her loving daughter, Denise Widlicka (John) of Brookpark; three cherished grandchildren, Eric Warsinskey of Saginaw Township, Mich., Kathryn Krusinski (John) of Berea, and Karyn Hurst (Evan) of Lakewood; and one adored great-grandchild, John Krusinski of Berea.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Cleveland Clinic Hospice for their care and compassion in Barbara’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Mayfield Senior Center or the Diabetes Foundation, causes close to Barbara’s heart.

She will be remembered for her strength, kindness, and the joy she brought to those lucky enough to know her.

A visitation for Barbara will be held Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Friday, September 5, 2025 from 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Karlo-Libby Funeral Home, 5000 Everhard Rd, NW, Canton, Ohio 44718. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM on Friday. Interment in Sunset Hills Burial Park.