Barbara Baumgarten Wielansky, September 8, 1938 – November 19, 2024
Beloved wife and love of his life to the late Norman Wielansky; dear precious mother and best friend of Joy Balis (Fred) and beloved mother to Steve Wielansky (Linda); loving and wonderful Baba to Becca Balis (Yann Kerblat), Katie Balis, Allie Wielansky (Matt Schreder) and Michael Wielansky; very special great grandmother to Raphaelle – dear sister of the late Ted Baumgarten (Teddi) and sister-in-law of the late Stanley Wielansky (late Elaine), late Lillian Liebman (late Leo) and Late Joan Braten (late Marvin); dear aunt, cousin and friend to many.
She wished us not to mourn her, but to celebrate her life. And no one knew how to celebrate life like Baba. Her home was a place full of laughter and celebrations as often as possible, and full of incredible food and drink any time of day. She was born and raised in University City, St. Louis by her beloved parents, Izzy and Ida, who owned a mom and pop grocery store.
She lived a life beyond her wildest dreams, traveling the world with her beloved husband of almost 60 years. The two adored and flirted with each other from the first time they met, all the way until the very end.
It was her passion to give back and make the world a better place. While she raised her family in St. Louis, there are scores of families all around the world who continue to love her and cherish the wisdom she shared through her volunteer work with AFS- foreign exchange students.
While she had a knack for opening her heart to those she encountered near home and during her travels, her love for the animal world knew no bounds. A devoted zoo docent of over 25 years and donor to saving wildlife, her compassion for the full animal kingdom was evident to all.
Her true loves were her four grandchildren who she treasured more than life itself. But her family always teased she loved her dogs the most.
She saw beauty in the mundane and would stop in her tracks for a beautiful sunset.
Everyone who came into contact with her knew her warmth and felt seen and loved. She has always cherished her lifelong friends, and the countless others whose lives she touched in the most poignant ways.
Graveside service Friday, November 22, 1:00 PM at Chevra Kadisha Cemetery, 1601 North and South Rd. 63130. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions preferred to St. Louis Zoo, Alzheimer’s Association – Greater Missouri Chapter or a Charity of your Choice. Visit www.bergermemorialchapel.com for more information.
BERGER MEMORIAL SERVICE
