Michael Barlow

Michael was born in New York City, Nov. 2, 1944, the only child of Blanche and Lothar Barlow. He came to Oklahoma to attend OU, met the love of his life and never left.

Michael loved his family above all else. He treasured the fifty-two years of marriage with his beloved wife Anita. As newlyweds they looked at the night sky and he would say “The stars are out tonight; that means I love you.” The stars will shine for eternity. He and his sons were very close, both as business partners and as friends. Michael (Papa) also had a very special relationship with each of his four granddaughters, Baylea, Sadie, Rachil and Lily. He also loved his daughters-in-law Laura and Stacie as though they were daughters.

Michael was passionate about a great many things. He always loved teaching, from his beginnings at Grant High School to performing workshops and seminars for school administrators. He was inducted into the Oklahoma Educator’s Hall of Fame in 2010. If you were to encounter Michael in any arena you would find him to be a strong advocate and supporter of the causes and activities he held dear. Many knew him as a passionate supporter of the State of Israel, a voice for the OKC Jewish Community, a negotiator and education consultant, a teacher union leader, an improv comic, a snow camper and cross country skier, and the guy with the Moses beard. Michael and Anita loved travelling together around the globe, many times to Israel, but also to Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Canada, Hawaii and often New York City, where he grew up.

Funeral services will take place Monday, Nov. 30 at 11:00 a.m. at Temple B’nai Israel, 4901 N. Penn in Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Gold Fund at Temple B’nai Israel or the YWCA Oklahoma City. Michael will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Arrangements under the direction of Hahn-Cook/Street & Draper Funeral Directors, Oklahoma City, OK.