Lasting Memories

Barbara Ruth Spanskie
May 7, 1926-March 13, 2020
Pleasanton, CA

Barbara Spanskie, a 23 year resident of Pleasanton California, passed away in her sleep on March 13 while under hospice care. She was born on Long Island in Port Washington, New York on May 7, 1926. Barbara grew up in Port Washington, New York and for a while in Buffalo, New York.

Barbara had a career with Gruman Aerospace Co. in Bethpage, New York for over 30 years. For many of those years she worked for the division that designed and build the Apollo Lunar Module where she had the opportunity to meet some of our astronauts.

After retirement, Barbara and her husband Charles moved from their home in Massapequa, New York to Pleasanton, California in order to be near her daughter and her daughter’s family. After arriving in California, Barbara began studying painting and became an accomplished artist with her paintings displayed in many art shows in the Bay Area. Barbara loved gardening and for many years she enjoyed the Garden Club with her daughter Lynne and other friends. Barbara was a member of the Lynnewood United Methodist Church in Pleasanton. In her later years she was active in The Widows and Widowers of Northern California.

Barbara was preceded in death by Charles Spanskie her husband of over 40 years, her daughter Lynne Pruiksma and her granddaughter Liane Pruiksma. Barbara is survived by her granddaughter Kristen Pruiksma, her son-in-law Bill Pruiksma, and a niece and nephews.

A service and celebration of her life will be scheduled for a future date once there is no longer a threat from the COVID-19 virus. If you like, a donation to your favorite charity can be made in memory of Barbara.