Barbara Ann Kirstein

Barbara Ann Kirstein, 85 died peacefully Monday, May 22, 2023, holding the hand of her husband of 62 years, Bob Kirstein.

A graveside service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Friday, May 26, at Rodef Sholom Cemetery, 1400 Garden Dr., in Waco.

Barbara grew up a farmer’s daughter in Sioux City, Iowa. She graduated from Central High School where she was the editor of the school newspaper and an excellent student. Her adventuresome spirit took her to Austin, Texas where she attended the University of Texas. Her presence there was meant to be, as her first date in college was with her future husband Bob. Their romance blossomed. At UT, she majored in journalism and graduated with honors. She made lasting friendships as an active member of DPhiE sorority.

Barbara and Bob were married after graduation in 1960 and they started their lives together in Dallas where their sons Brett and Roger were born. They moved to Waco in 1970 and put down their roots. It did not take long for Barbara to establish close and life-long friendships in Waco. Barbara loved and looked forward to her weekly mahjong games which she played with her friends for decades. She also played competitive bridge, was a docent at the Waco Zoo and was active in Temple Rodef Sholom. Sports played a big part in her life. There was no bigger Longhorn fan. More importantly, she was a devoted sports mom never missing one of Brett and Roger’s games, and always having a coach’s critique to give after. Those that knew her will miss her sense of humor, intelligence, competitiveness and her smile. Barbara and Bob continued their adventures together later in life through travel, as they visited countries all over the world.

Barbara was predeceased by her son, Brett; her parents, Louis and Tillie Fish; her brother, Bernard Fish; and her sister, Marilynne Darrow.

She is survived by her husband, Bob; her son, Roger and wife, Diane; her daughter-in-law Lillian; her four wonderful and beloved

grandchildren, Lane, Carrington, Graham and Duncan; and her nieces and nephews, Bobby Darrow, Amy Darrow and Marcy Darrow.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory on our “Tribute Wall” at www.WHBfamily.com.