I was going to write an obituary but that seemed too harsh. As I started to reflect on Barbara’s life I felt I needed to put my thoughts on paper for those who loved her. For I have been told that as time goes on it gets harder to remember the details. I find that hard to believe due to the giant impact she had on so many lives. However, as I gathered my thoughts I felt the need to do this. I found it hard to get started but I felt My Angel’s presence and it brought joy to my soul to honor her. I didn’t realize it when it was happening but as we grew together as a couple I became a much better person and a man. She was truly the Yin to my Yang.
I wanted to add a prelude of my feelings and thoughts of Barbara. However, our daughter Jen posted the following on Facebook that couldn’t describe Barbara any better.
A week ago, today, our world went sideways. Our protector, our matriarch, our amazing, Barbara Faehndrich was called home to Heaven. I wanted to post photos showing all the unforgettable memories she has given us, but there are simply too many. Disney, Ocean City MD, Christmas, Easter, family dinners, hugs, laughs, tears, long talks.. the list is endless. Her family was her everything and she loved my children with all of her heart and soul. I am so grateful to her for so many things but above all, for her unyielding love, support and friendship. She was my right hand in so many ways. She helped me raise my children, she helped me be a better person, she pushed me when I thought I should give up, she taught me how to be strong when I thought I couldn’t, she taught me how to forgive when I didn’t want to, she held me accountable. She was always there. She was not just my mother in law, she was my second Mom and above all, my best friend.
I hope those who read this will remember Barbara as the remarkable woman she was. Take the time to be thankful, not sad that she was in your life.
She truly left the world in a better place by being in it. I will love her till the day I die.
