Barbara Diane Haeffele

Barbara Haeffele, lovingly known as Barb and Barbie, was a tiny but mighty woman whose generosity, determination, and love for her family and friends shaped the lives of those closest to her.

Born on August 16, 1955, in St. Louis, MO, Barb grew up in Dupo, IL. She was talented, hardworking, and rarely one to sit still for long. Family was at the center of everything Barb did. She was a devoted wife to Bruce, whom she married in 1977. Their love for one another remained deep throughout their life together. Barb and Bruce built a life through hard work and determination, raising their three children in Columbia, IL. Barb owned and operated her own house-painting business, bringing her skill into the homes of others. Barb had a special gift for making a house feel like home. She loved holidays, decorating, crafting, and keeping her home beautiful, neat, and thoughtfully put together.

As a mother to Ryan, Drew, and Megan, Barb was hands-on, involved, and always invested in her children’s lives. She loved being part of their activities as they grew up, participating in the school PTA, cheering on the boys in hockey, and supporting Megan in dance. She showed up for her children, taking an active role in their schooling, interests, careers, and daily lives. She was the woman her children always turned to for advice and guidance.

Barb made lifelong friends in her community. She was fiercely protective of the people she loved and quick to offer her time and help. She adored her girlfriends who met for weekly card games and annual weekend getaways.

Some of the family’s most treasured memories were made at Norfork Lake in Arkansas. Barb returned to the lake every summer since she was just 16 years old, making it a beloved family tradition. The family memories at Norfork Lake will remain with Barb’s family for a lifetime.

One of Barb’s most cherished roles was being Nana to her granddaughter, Lucy. Barb affectionately called her Lulu, while Lucy delighted in calling Barb “Nana,” a name she said constantly. Their bond was uniquely special, and Barb held a place in Lucy’s heart that no one else could fill.

Barb leaves behind her beloved husband, Bruce; her children, Ryan, Drew, and Megan; her daughter-in-law, Julia; her son-in-law, Dean; and her adored granddaughter, Lucy, her beloved Lulu. She is also survived by her brother, David; her sisters, Patricia (Bruce) and Deborah (Todd); her brother-in-law, Mark (Brandi); her sisters-in-law, Pamela and Jill (Charlie); and many wonderful and caring nieces and nephews.

Barb will be remembered for her love, her generosity, her many talents, her beautiful home, her love of a good deal, and her unwavering devotion to her family. She was a painter, a gardener, a crafter, a puzzle enthusiast, a devoted St. Louis Blues and Cardinals fan, and a friend who could always be counted on. Above all, Barb was someone who loved deeply and showed that love through acts of service. She leaves an enormous space in her loved ones’ hearts.

The family plans to hold a celebration of life at a later date, honoring Barb and the love, strength, and memories she leaves behind.