Barbara J del Mese

1932-2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara J. Del Mese beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, who left this world on July 30, 2025 in Long Beach, CA.

Barbara was a vibrant spirit whose laughter and greeting of “HELLO…”touched the lives of all who knew her.

Born to Edison West and Hedwig Schriner West on February 3, 1932 in Rochester, New York, where she was raised along with her siblings Jack(deceased), Doug(deceased), Beverly, Patricia(deceased)and Richard(deceased).

Barbara was always the life of the party, a beacon of joy and humor whose infectious laughter could light up any room, especially during “happy shooters” celebrations (tequila shots)for no particular reason. Her playful spirit brought warmth and happiness to her family and friends during many Sunday dinners in her home featuring eggplant Parmesan, pasta and chicken and potatoes.

Barbara married Nicholas Del Mese on July1, 1950. They remained married over 63 years until Dads’ passing in 2013. Together they raised 5 children, Ron, Bob,Nick, Diana and Larry. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Southern California where they settled in Van Nuys. Barbara’s mantra was to “take and do”which she repeated often. She involved herself in many of her children’s activities including Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts leader, Girl Scouts, and Little League baseball while also working as a waitress or school bus driver. She had a unique ability to find joy in the simplest of moments, whether it was sharing a silly joke or being the first one onto the dance floor.

Barbara and Nick loved family vacations whether cross country road trips, tent camping at Carpinteria or Lake Tahoe cabins. Later in life they took several trips abroad. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel to many places, creating unforgettable memories with her children and grand children along the way. The bonds she formed with them were unbreakable, filled with laughter, love, and shared experiences that will be cherished.

An avid Elks member and volunteer , Barbara cooked for many Elks events. Her hands were always busy, and she walked quickly with purpose where ever she went. She poured her heart into everything she did, leaving a legacy of love in each activity.

Barbara was deeply religious, finding strength and solace in her Catholic faith. She instilled these values in her family, guiding them with love and compassion. Mom or Grams as she was referred to, has eleven loving grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit, and her legacy will continue to live on through the love she shared with Dad and the memories they created together.

As we remember Barbara, let us celebrate her life filled with humor, love and adventure. She taught us to embrace life with open arms and to find joy in every moment. Her spirit will forever remain in our hearts, guiding us as we navigate the world without her.

Barbara maintained a statue of Our Blessed Mother in her backyard for many years to watch over and protect her family.

At the base of the statue was a plaque with a poem which reads, “God saw you getting tired, a cure was not to be, so he put his arms around you, and whispered, “Come with me”. With tearful eyes we watched you and saw you fade away, although we loved you dearly, we could not make you stay. A golden heart stopped beating, your tender hands at rest, God took you home to prove to us, He only takes the best.

A private memorial service will be held by the family at a later date.

Rest in peace, dear Mom, or Grams. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.