Barbara Lynn Schwartz May 14, 1952 – January 27, 2025

With deep sorrow and unconditional love, we mourn the passing of our beloved sister, devoted aunt, dear cousin, and friend, Barbara.  On May 14, 1952 , Barb was the third-born child to Peggy & Keith Schwartz at Randolph Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

At the end of the Korean Conflict, Barb, at age 1, and older siblings-sister Kathy & brother Steve-relocated with their parents to Sidney, Nebraska, near Schwartz’ original homestead.  The family grew with additions of siblings -Gary, Trish & Kris.  Barb spent her young childhood and formative years in Sidney, attending & graduating from St. Patrick’s Academy.

The family tree of talents that was planted and grew there is beautifully laden with variegated leaves & flowering representations of Schwartz’ athletes, farmers, musicians, artists, educators, bankers, engineers, nurses, business owners, mechanics, writers & others.  In keeping with her DNA & heritage, Barb excelled in vocal talent, photography, love of nature, especially biking, hiking and writing poetry.

As a young adult, Barb eventually settled in Omaha, Nebraska where she was sole proprietor of a painting business and until 1997 active in a family business-Domestic Chores Unlimited-with her youngest sister, Kris.

In 1997, after an unfortunate bike accident that resulted in severe injuries, Barb relocated to Scottsbluff, Nebraska where her mother and other family members supported her lengthy rehab.  After recovery, Barb’s life changed course.  She moved to Colorado Springs, in part because she had family there, but in large part because she loved the mountains and opportunities to enjoy nature.  Her new surroundings afforded her the opportunity to develop her love of photography and hiking.  Her broader interests included politics, holistic medicine, publishing her poetry, listening to music (esp, Sarah Brightman & Irish Tenors), and playing competitive scrabble and other games.  She was self-employed and thrived until recent years, when confronted with chronic pain & health issues. 

Tributes from childhood friends & family members after learning of Barb’s passing,

“She was the sweetest soul”

“She taught us how to love unconditionally, without judgment or prejudice, asking for nothing in return”

“She was a warrior”, “A good person, talented and very smart”

“She marched to the beat of a different drum”

“With respect, we would be remiss not to mention Barb had a very strong, yet quite stubborn streak. Her mantra is Frank Sinatra’s song ” I Did it My Way”, and she adhered to it till the very end”.

“Her giggle and her laugh were pure joy”.

“She loved in the deepest sense of the word”

“She had a passion for words, & never happier than with nieces and nephews.”

“She was the most forgiving person I knew”.

The above sentiments attest to Barb’s spirit and life which are a reflection of how the Bible tells us to love.

“A friend loves at all times”, Proverbs 17

“And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32

“Finally, all of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart and a humble mind.” 1st Peter 3:8

Barb is survived by siblings-Kathy (Dean), Steve (Cyndie), Gary (Cory), Trish, Kris (Phil).

Barb is also survived by many nieces & nephews.  She was devoted to them all, but experienced a special bond with Ashley & Maggie, especially in their younger, formative years when she lived in close proximity to them. 

Surviving members of her “booster club” in order from oldest-youngest are: Jeff Miller (Amy); Kerri Schwartz; Tory Schwartz (Jennifer); Jill Becker (Brian); Brooke (Brookie) Schwartz (Nicole);  Amy Hutcheon (Scotland); Angie Miller; Travis (Travie) Schwartz (Meg); Ashley Haberman, Maggie Haberman (Scott); and Jack Haberman, her godson. 

She is also survived by 22 grand nieces & nephews and many cousins & friends.  Preceding her in death were her parents, Keith and-Peggy Schwartz, and her nephew, Brian Miller, who in keeping with his vibe, probably picked her up in his dinghy when she arrived at the “gate” and took her fishing with the “Master” fisherman.

Instead of naming a benefactor, Barb would want you to “pay it forward” – do one good deed every day; forgive and love one another unconditionally. 

Barb died January 27, 2025, after several weeks of declining health, in hospice care with the mindset that her “God in his steadfast love will meet me” (Psalm 59:10.)  A celebration of life is planned for spring.  There will be cherry pie, ice cream, dreamsicles, and cookies. All of her favorites.  Did we mention she had a sweet tooth? We will be in touch about the date and location of her celebration.  Join us if you can.