She was born on May 31, 1949 in Cooperstown, the daughter of John J. and Mary Potanko Kanser. She married Richard A. Tessitore on August 3, 1974 in St. Mary’s Church, Oneonta.
For a period of 20 years, retiring in 1987, Barb was a senior personnel associate at SUNY, Oneonta.
She was a member of St. Mary’s Church.
Barb enjoyed gardening, but she especially enjoyed caring for her tropical fish, and her two parrots, Pepper and Casey.
She is survived by her husband Richard A. Tessitore of Oneonta; her two brothers and sister, Albert J. Kanser, Robert J. Kanser, and Cynthia Kanser; an uncle, John (Joan) Potanko; her mother-in-law, Ann Tessitore, and her sisters-in-law, Paulette (Terry) Rogers and Joanne Hanzalik.
She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and her son Rick, and his family.
A private family committal service will take place in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Emmons.
Memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
