Barbara Joan Lester, a radiant force of love and light, embarked on
her eternal journey on September 12, 2023. Born July 31, 1948, in
Utica, New York, her vibrant spirit and boundless passion for life
left an indelible mark on countless hearts during her 75-year journey.
Barbara's path gently came to a close in Longmont, Colorado, where she
found solace alongside her daughter after bravely facing pancreatic
cancer.
Barbara's life was a living testament to the transformative power of
love and resilience. As a cherished partner to the late Evan Perkins,
they wove a tapestry of adventure and shared passions. Her greatest
accomplishments were her children – Jonah Goldman, Myles Goldman, and
Julia Sensenig – living embodiments of her nurturing soul, boundless
love, and steadfast belief in their potential. To her, they were the
true treasures of her journey. A doting grandmother, Coco, Lola,
Sofia, Iyla, and Nash Goldman held a special place in her heart, each
a beacon of joy.
Her entrepreneurial spirit ignited in Boulder, where she co-owned the
cherished culinary haven, The Terrace Maya. For 13 years, Barbara
infused each dish with her unique flair and passion, creating not just
meals, but cherished moments for her patrons, who became her extended
family. Her employees found in her a mentor and a friend, making her
restaurant more than just a place to dine.
Travel, Mexico, culinary artistry, and the embrace of nature were
Barbara's passions. She reveled in the company of family and friends,
drawing inspiration from the pages of cherished books. Her faithful
canine companion, Saide, brought endless joy and comfort. Preceded in
death by her husband, Evan Perkins, her sisters, Susan and Linda
Lester, and her parents, James and Janet Lester, Barbara's legacy
lives on through her three children, three step-children, and her
cousin, Jaime Wrz, who hold her memory close.
Barbara's life was marked by challenges, met with unyielding
determination, grace, and an unwavering optimism that embodied the
words of Albert Einstein: "In the middle of every difficulty lies
opportunity." Barbara transformed trials into triumphs, pain into
purpose, and experiences into wisdom.
As we remember Barbara, let us embrace her vivacious spirit, her
devotion to family, and her passion for exploration. In the face of
adversity, let us choose joy, resilience, and love, just as Barb did.
May her light continue to guide us.
Services: 1:30 PM, Sunday October 15th, 2023 at the First Congressional Church 1128 Pine Street, Boulder CO 80302
Please keep in mind - traffic may be heavy due to parent's weekend at CU and parking due to the location - please plan accordingly. Street parking is free on Sundays.
Thank you all for your continued support and love. In lieu of flowers and trees, we are inviting donations to honor Barbara's final wishes for herself, her children, and the continued care for her dog Sadie.
Please venmo @julia-jacqueline
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in memory of Barbara Joan Lester, please visit our floral store.