Barbara Menzel

Barbara Menzel, 76, of Essex, formerly of Madison, passed away January 5, 2013. She was born July 22, 1936 in Deep River to Matthew and Elaine (Lebert) Kobylenski. Barbara is preceded in death by her parents and brother, Ronald Kobylenski. Barbara is survived by children; Sally (Sarah) Menzel and her wife, Ketra Fulks of Ivoryton, Christina Menzel and her son, RJ Holloway of Ivoryton, Duncan Draper of CA and his wife Naomi and their sons, Nathaniel and Benjamin, and sister-in-law, Patricia Kobylenski of Deep River.

It's hard to sum a person's impact on the world in a few short paragraphs. In fact, it’s nearly impossible. Nothing we write here will properly serve to impart the true spirit that represented Mom. If you knew her, you know what made her special and how she left her mark on your life. I think reflecting on that may be a more eloquent remembrance than any words on this page.

Mom was a loving and kind person. She was creative, crafty, musical and a talented (published) poet. She was extremely well read and I’ve often wondered if there was a book left in the library that she hadn’t gotten into. She would get a kick out of being the ‘first one’ to get a new release. I think she made it a game to do so.

Family was very important to mom. Ours was not a large one but when we all gathered for holidays or special events you could see the joy that being together brought to her. I know that many of our friends growing up considered her a second mom, and often referred to her as such.

Mom led a good life. It wasn’t always easy or uncomplicated but that is the nature of being human. She provided life lessons that we will carry with us for a lifetime. She truly loved and cared for us. She taught us to be good, productive people and to try, always, to make the world a better, happier place. Our lives are forever changed by her death but they are also forever impacted by her life and the goodness she brought to each of us in her own special way.

We will receive family and friends from 1PM until 3PM, with a service at 2pm on Sunday, January 13th in the Swan Funeral Home, 1224 Boston Post Rd. Old Saybrook. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Acton Public Library, 60 Old Boston Post Road Old Saybrook CT 06475 in memory of Barbara Menzel.