Soooo many memorable moments!!   With Barb....laughter was  always the best medicine.

I was really glad I got to see you a couple of years ago at the family get together Rest in peace Barb     your cousin Bill Wolfer.

Dear Aunt Barbara - thank you, for being part of our family - the earliest memories of meeting you, Jessica, and Brian at Oma and Opa's house will never fade - how exciting to grow our family!  But it did not stop there - soon Stefan and Alex arrived expanding our family.  From sleep overs at your house to gatherings on your back deck - the memories are embedded for an eternity.  We love you and will keep you in our thoughts. 

Love,
Shawn+Gin

We inherited a special sister when you married Rein. You’ll be missed Barbara!
My Barbie!💕💕

Sisters-in-law. Barbara was the last to join our family and I never heard her say a negative word about anyone of us.  She was a great source of advice and wisdom from thoughtful places.  She was ready for new adventures and definitely had her hands full with Reinhards unique personality. Miss you Barbara.  Love Lora

Barbara, thank you for the quiet lessons you shared through the way you lived each day, impacting in ways you may never have realized.  Your beautiful presence and kindness will be sorely missed. 
Prayers for your family that they will find comfort and strength in the memories of love that you left behind.

Christmas parties were always more fun when Barb and Reinhard were there.

Barb always knew how to have fun in Santa Fe!

We find it hard to believe that our dear friend Barbara has passed
She will be remembered as a precious Wife,Mother and Oma to her family
She was generous of her time and talents with her friends
Her baked delicacies and homemade treasures  are legendary
We are so sad that she has gone to Heaven  but can find comfort in the knowledge that she is reunited  with her beloved sister Jennifer and other family members
We will never forget you Barbara
Much love 
Mueller family

When I think of Aunt Barbara I am reminded of her lust for newness, adventure, and compassion in a way that made you want to be a better person. Years ago my family and I visited her and Uncle Rein in Colorado. They were so excited to share where they were living and the ample opportunities to hike near by like Garden of the Gods and the Manitou Incline. She was never afraid to take on new challenges and welcomed new experiences with grace and kindness. A true role model for how to live one’s life and to love life in the moment. We love you Aunt Barbara. <3

I first met Barbara as my special education supervisor in1995. She was a caring person to talk to. Then I met Reinhard and was his classroom assistant for 2 years. They invited me into their home and made you feel like a part of the family. The  love they shared for each other was extraordinary. They were compassionate and Barbara always made me feel at home. She will be greatly missed.

As I pondered the startling news about your death, I was overcome by a rush of memories, moments, years, and experiences we shared that shaped my life in lasting ways. I wondered what I could write that would truly matter. In the end, I chose to open my personal history and share, simply and honestly, what came to mind. So I return to the fall of 1969, to the University of Cincinnati, and to a bridge where two young lives met without knowing what the future held. God sent me a shining light that day. That light was you. What followed was a storybook college  romance  time filled with hope, laughter, and possibility. I remember our years at UC, including the baseball seasons you shared as a batgirl, and even the movie Love Story that feels prophetic in hindsight. Those were formative years, rich with growth and discovery. Together, we navigated the transition from academia to the real world, bridged youthful romance into marriage, and faced the challenges of building careers while raising a family. We pursued advanced degrees, worked hard, and supported one another through long days and uncertain moments. Then came the incomparable joy of our two beautiful children. I still remember the photographs of them lovingly dressed by you for holidays and birthdays, each image a reflection of your care and devotion. We were a great team. With you at my side during those formative years, life had meaning, purpose, and direction. We completed our education, found meaningful work, bought homes, raised a family, and lived in a state of peace and serenity that I now recognize as a rare gift. No man could ask for more. Though many years and much distance  now separate us, time has not diminished the significance or value of what we shared. You were a treasure in my life, and that truth remains unchanged. I would always choose to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. You will forever remain in my prayers and in my thoughts. May God bless you Barbara Lee.
Joe Hensley

Aunt Barb always showed up for family and made the long trip from Colorado to Ohio for our wedding. She brought the most beautiful handmade gift for us which is such a perfect reflection of who Aunt Barb was: thoughtful, creative, and full of care.
 
We are so grateful for all the amazing memories of Aunt Barb and her kind spirit growing up. She always made sure to check in with everyone, truly listened and was present in the moment. We will miss her deeply.

Love, 
Sarah & Nick Gramza

Barbara and I bonded over our love of Native American Art and Culture. We travelled to Sante Fe and Taos a number of times to experience the culture and food of a beautiful area of the country. Just to soak in the majestic and awe inspiring beauty of the land was amazing. Even when they decided to move out West I was so sad to see them leave Cincinnati but knew the opportunity to visit them in Colorado Springs was a wonderful opportunity for more adventures. The Garden of the Gods was basically in their backyard and we could see Pikes Peak from their windows. While Rein went gambling in Cripple Creek Barbara and I toured the old brothel museum in town. Pretty amazing! We also visited a park that had huge fossilized dinosaur bones. 
But visiting Old Colorado City, the Broadmoor and the Cheyenne Zoo were highlights. She was a wonderful hostess and tour guide.
But before Colorado, they had a wonderful and welcoming home in Cincinnati that frequently hosted family holidays and great parties with family and friends. And the food was always great! I remember once when Rein and Barbara got lobster tails and crab legs in an all you can eat sumptuous feast! In my book it has never been topped.
 Barbara was such a kind, warm and loving person in all our lives. She was a calming presence that demonstrated her love for all of us, especially her children and my brother Rein. She will be so deeply missed and leaves a huge void in our family. Barbara we love you and may you rest in peace.
Love ❤️ 
Rene

Sarah and Nick's wedding. Aunt Barb and uncle  Rein always showed up for family!! ❤️❤️❤️

I’m so grateful to be part of your family. I promise to help carry on your memories, traditions, and recipes. We’ll always share stories of your adventures and the love you gave. You will forever be remembered as the best Oma.

Pandemic times during the 4th…they got to meet Ale for the first time! 

From Ale - she remembers her being so welcoming, easy to have meaningful conversations and as a great person. She still remembers the baked Kale we had one of the eventing Aunt Barb made! Set the bar high for Ale’s first extended family meeting ;)

Such an amazing and unforgettable trip with my special aunt Barb! We had so much fun as ‘adults’ getting to reminisce on the past, catching up on the present and discussing about the future. Wish we had many more of these moments the last few years. Growing up with her as an Aunt and with cousin Stefan that spent so much time with them was a family bond that few get to experience. There is nothing like it. Love you Aunt Barb!

Over a week without you and there are still no words to describe the loss or absence we feel without you here. There's no amount of keys on a keyboard that could ever encompass the light that left the world when you went with it. You were larger than life. One of a kind. My everything <3 

I will miss you every breath, of every moment for all of my life. I am who I am because of you. The strong parts. The stubborn parts. The caring parts. I promise to carry those parts of me with me forever. 

I love you mama and I always will.

We feel so grateful that Aunt Barb was part of some of the most meaningful milestones in our relationship. She was able to celebrate our engagement with us in Aspen, where they of course arrived with a fresh Costco haul for everyone to enjoy. We got to spend a few days playing card games and enjoying time together as a family. 

She also traveled to Cincinnati for our wedding, bringing with her beautiful extra large handmade macramé creation. Having Tony’s Godmother present for these monumental moments meant so much to us, and we will always cherish those memories and the love she shared so freely.

I think this picture encapsulates Aunt Barb and her magnetic energy. In a crowded room she stands out and steals the show, embracing the joy of life while being effortlessly chic. She was loving, cool, stylish, active, fun, and brought so much happiness into the lives of her friends and family. There’s so much I admired about Aunt Barb- She had an artistic spirit, always learning new crafts and creating jewelry and crochet art. She was an amazing host and was so giving- not just to her own family, but to all her nieces and nephews. I am forever grateful for her celebrations with me during my educational journey, and for her support during my own health issues. She always had such a unique, strong connection with the West. I will forever cherish the art and tokens I have received from her over the years and think of her fondly whenever I see turquoise and Native American art. She is such a special woman and will miss her dearly, sending all my love and support to her family.

Dear Reinhard and family,

Barb shined in her wardrobe, personality, and professional manner.
I truly admire her partnership with Reinhard, a true love and marriage.

Hearts are heavy.  She touched so many people in a positive way.  I often think of her smile and can hear her laugh.

She will be missed.  Prayers to and for all.

Pamela Kariofiles 
NWLSD

Aunt Barb is the prototype for a cool aunt. Her outfits, her style, her hosting capabilities, her humor, her love for the world and her family. I’ll always remember her scratching my back with her beautifully done nails at parties. I am in awe of her many, many talents and hobbies. I have her beautiful and intricate macrame hanging in my home and I cherish it as one of my favorite art pieces. I am so sad about the loss of Barb and the light she brought to the world. We are all lucky to have Barb in our life.

Barbara was a generous and wonderful woman. I am thankful to have had her in my life when I did. I know she will be deeply missed by all of those who loved her. My condolences to all those she touched throughout her life.

Barbara was an amazing woman. So creative, kind and giving. I was constantly amazed by the beautiful things she would create, the most memorable being the train cake she made for her grandson. Amazing! She was always looking to learn new things, while all the time sharing and caring about others. I feel so privileged to have known her and to have had the opportunity to share in her kindness and generosity by living next door. She will truly be missed! My heart breaks for Reinhardt for he certainly loved her dearly. Her beautiful memory will stay with us all.

Barbara was a Great Lady, a Great Neighbor and will be Greatly Missed.

I had to include this video with her amazing laugh because this is what we all always remember: the fun, the laughter, the joy that we shared with Aunt Barbie. We love you so much.

Aunt Barbie was such a wonderful grandma to my children and I am so grateful for that. Within weeks of having my babies, we would head for a visit and she would immediately send me for a hot bath and to rest while she took care of them. It was such a treat and exactly what I needed while knowing that they were in the absolute best hands and being fully loved and cared for.

Aunt Barbie loved her role with the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and was so proud to show us all around for Boo at the Zoo. It became an annual trip for us and we all love celebrating Halloween with her.

On one trip we panned for gold with Aunt Barbie and Uncle Rein. This photo is so typical of Aunt Barbie--right in there loving on my kids and connecting with them.

Aunt Barbie was a such a beautiful and incredible role model for so many of us. She was there for me through the birth of my three babies and the loss of their sister. She guided me with strength and grace and held space for me to grieve and heal. She spoiled me and my kids like we were all her own and we felt that way. We all looked forward to our Co Springs visits and cherished spending time with Aunt Barbie and Uncle Rein. It was the highlight of every fall visiting the zoo with Aunt Barbie for Boo and dressing up in costumes. The kids absolutely adored her and everything about her -- from the scary watermelon man downstairs to the crafting to the baking and stories. We all feel this loss so deeply and we are extending our love to everyone she has touched. She will live on in all of us and we will continue to honor her memory and legacy.

My Aunt Barb had a love for all things western and southwestern—something that made her style and spirit so uniquely her. I’ll always think of her whenever I see a turquoise stone or a dream catcher, little reminders of the beauty she found in the world around her. I am so sorry for the loss of Aunt Barb.  I’ll always remember her in those small, beautiful ways.

My Aunt Barb had a love for all things western and southwestern—something that made her style and spirit so uniquely her. I’ll always think of her whenever I see a turquoise stone or a dream catcher, little reminders of the beauty she found in the world around her.  I am so sorry for the loss of Aunt Barb.  I’ll always remember her in those small, beautiful ways.

We are at a loss for words to fully express our sadness and how much we will miss Barb, starting the with the tremendous amount of care she gave to help raise all her younger siblings. There are so many memories from our adulthood. Whether it was a large family and friend celebration or an impromptu gathering, Barb and Rein were the ultimate host/hostess. Barb had many talents and creative skills like sewing, macrame, and making jewelry. She had a great sense of fashion, and a flair with home decor, making their home very comfortable and inviting. She was a great cook, having the ability to transform even a staple meal into a presentation worthy of appearing in a cooking magazine. Above all of that, it is her character, her love of family and putting family first, her strength, determination, and her work ethic we will remember. It is the beautiful life she and Rein built and love they share that her family will carry close to their hearts. Our love and prayers continue for Reinhard, Brian, Jessica, Stefan, Alex, Kevin, Tori, Nick, Wyatt and Hayden.

New Year’s Day 
Family dinner and game day

Some of the Colerain teacher gang at the Little Miami Brewery in Cincinnati.

Barbara and Reinhard’s visit to Cincinnati.

A Mettey visit to the Cheyenne zoo with Barbara….our tour guide.

A special visit to a Thomas Dambo wooden  troll in Colorado Springs with Kathy and Creig.

I was happy to meet Barbara when she and Rein welcomed us into their home and shared a few of their favorite places in and around Colorado Springs several years ago.  I felt honored to stay connected with her through the journey she faced with such courage. Her strength during her battle with cancer was truly inspiring. She fought with grace and her love for her family and friends was always evident. She leaves behind a legacy of bravery, resilience, and a fun loving spirit that will continue to touch those who knew and cherished her dearly.

Barbara Kalbli was a friend who treated us like family. From ski trips out west to parties at their house in Anderson to visits to Colorado Springs…..there was a special bond. Barbara and Reinhard’s house was your house! We have fond memories of the Kalbli Cincinnati visits when they would return from  Colorado Springs and meet up with some of the Colerain teacher gang at Little Miami Brewery. When visiting Colorado Springs with our daughters, Barbara shared with us the Cheyenne Zoo. She  volunteered there and loved it so! Barbara also loved sharing the Garden of the Gods where we would all hike together. A picture that Barbara gifted us for our wedding inspired a southwest decor for the rest of our house in 1994. She sent our daughter for her recent wedding one of her macrame pieces….a true talent that she had and shared! Barbara and Reinhard together gave us so many memories.  Rest in peace Barbara and know how much you were loved!

It makes me very sad to hear of the passing of Barb. I only got spend a few special occasions with her as I came into this family later in her life. I was lucky enough to have a long conversation with her at Hannah & Sam's wedding. We spent the conversation talking about the importance of educators as she was a special-ed teacher at Colerain Middle school, which coincidentally I grew up right down the street from. As we talked I could tell how genuine of a person she was as she told stories of caring for past students. She gave off such a nurturing & calm presence. It is clear to me today that Barb not only had an impact on her family but also an impact on the many students and people she interacted with. I am grateful for my short time knowing Barb but I am also grateful to hear of the many stories from Tim & Julie. 

- Brian Kennelly (Leah's Husband)

Thank you for sharing the most spectacular view my eyes have ever seen. Your beauty resonates inside and out, in all you do. I am so appreciative of the special moments we were blessed with.

Friends from Northwest Local Schools, Cincinnati Ohio

Friends from Northwest Local Schools Cincinnati Ohio

Barb always had fun with her nieces!💕💕

Sharing a couple pictures of Northwest Local school friends that worked with Barbara for many years in special education. Barbara made a positive difference with the challenges facing students with disabilities. So many young lives, along with their families & school staff, were lucky to have been influenced and shaped by her passion and caring support. It was a blessing & a pleasure to have worked alongside Barbara. We have lost a special lady & good friend but will find comfort in the memories we all share together. God bless you Barbara!  ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Barb was an  extremely crafty person! She made several beautiful Wall designs for different relatives for wedding gifts.❤️❤️ Not only did she make them, but she drove them across country to bring them to the weddings.  Not  many people can say  that their Special  aunt Barb  made, and drove their gift across the country for their special day.❤️

I had the privilege to get to know Barbara as a parent with a special needs son, then as a coworker at CHS, then as a friend. My first impression of Barbara was “What a  classy lady” ~ she was always dressed beautifully and was professional.  As a supervisor I got to witness her advocate what was best for the students while supporting the teachers. 

While working at CHS I got to know Barbara and Reinhard as a couple. Their shared humor and playful rapport often lifted the mood and morale of the Special Ed  department.  It was evident the love and respect they had for each other. 

Although Barbara is gone physically her impact on many lives will remain.

Peace my friend, you will be missed ☮️🫶
Claire

GRATEFUL for this special Aunt of mine. Grateful for too many things to list but I’ll name a few here. When you grow up in a big family you get to have extra “parents”. Being one of Barbie’s extra kids was a blessing. I loved having her to do crafts with and make something beautiful with our hands. I loved seeing her make a business out of her passion. I loved noticing the little details she would give attention to as the ultimate hostess. I loved how she and Rein blended a family and modeled unconditional love. I loved seeing the wonder in mine and Kadi’s kids’ faces while being showered with attention and treats in her home. I love my special wine glasses she made for me. I love her clothes and her style. I love her children so so much. While you’re growing it’s easy to take someone so special for granted. Now that I’m older I know how lucky we all are to have been blessed with such a beautiful Aunt Barbie. All of my love to Reinhard, Brian, Jessica & Kevin, Stefan &Tori, Alex & Nick and especially to Wyatt and Hayden. Barbara’s love lives inside of all of you and I know you’ll honor that forever.

Dear Barbie, our eldest sister and MOTHER to us all!  Your beautiful name, so deeply tied to strength, protection and affectionate role. Your beautiful soul, always providing guidance and emotional support, LOVE and nurturing , sharing sound trusted advice and lending your ear and safe space, humbly leading by example and teaching without words.  Thank you for being an amazing sister, mentor and second mother.  I love you so and pray to be reunited with you in Heaven one day.  God Bless you and your beautiful family.  Rest in Peace.  Love Marybeth

Aunt Barbie will be greatly missed by more than anyone can comprehend.  She meant so much to so many, and it is impossible to put into words what she meant and means to me today.  Barbie was always there for me no matter what the situation growing up.  She was a counselor to me when I was straying in the wrong directions.  A mother to me when I needed her advice or help.  And more than anything a loving friend when that’s what I needed in my life.  Aunt Barbies steadfast love and devotion to our entire family was always a guarantee.  I truly feel blessed to have our last trip to Colorado Springs, Manitou, and Sheels with Barbie and my family.  It was a great couple of days and I’ll never forget her smile.  Aunt Barbie I love you and always will.  Love Adam, Christy, Ben, Chase, Sarah, John, and Cooper

Barb and Tim at Tony and Mikayla’s wedding.

Barb was the perfect older sister, she was always looking out for me, giving me direction, and letting me know when I was out of line. We were truly blessed to have her in our lives. Ì will always remember the good times. Much love, brother Rick

I can imagine the scene when Barbara walked through the clouds to see her sister Jennifer standing there with arms open wide. 
I knew the Wolfer family since we all attended the same high school and swam at Coney way back in the 60s.
Peace and love to all. 
Becky Holthaus and
Terry Luginbuhl, Colorado Springs

When I think of Barbara, one word comes to mind—class.  Professionally, I always marveled at her ability to be both direct and respectful with students and families. Meetings under Barbara’s leadership were as masterclass in how to navigate tough conversations. She also gave me the best professional advice of my career, stated in one succinct sentence. That message has guided me across the years. 
Barbara and Reinhard’s beautiful relationship has been a joy to witness. They personified mutual respect blended with humor.  There are few couples who demonstrate their love and respect for one another with such openness. I cannot think of one of them without the other.  Yet I know that they will reunited
Because I knew you, Barbara, I have been changed for good.
❤️ Jenny

I met Barbara in 1995 at the Northwest Board of Education. At that time she was my supervisor and quickly became my friend. She was caring and compassionate to all of my concerns. She cared about special education and the needs of students and staff. I was welcomed in her home as if I lived there. She will truly be missed but always remembered. Barbara, say”hi” to my mother. We will meet again someday. Sincerely, Vickie Richardson

Words cannot adequately describe the sense of loss we are feeling. 
We have so many wonderful, happy memories of Barb/Barbara/Barbie. She was a strong, smart, funny woman and easy to be with. Her talents were many and she loved trying new things, like making stained glass, jewelry, macrame, and became an entrepreneur, opening her southwestern shop, A Touch of Santa Fe, in New Richmond. 
We loved spending evenings with her and Reinhard playing games, eating pizza, and soaking in the hot tub. Those two were adorable together and made for each other. When they moved to CO, they were awesome hosts when we visited. 
We watched each other’s kids grow up into amazing adults. She loved her family more than anything and was so proud of each of them. She was wild happy to be a grandmother. 
Throughout her lifetime, she touched and enhanced the lives of so many. Although she will be dearly missed by all who knew her, we will always love her and keep her in our hearts. We are so lucky that she is part of our family. 
Love, Tim and Julie

OBITUARY

Barbara Lee Kalbli

November 26, 1950 – April 6, 2026

Swan-Law Funeral Directors

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