Lasting Memories

Barbara Starr Christensen
Dec. 4, 1939-Oct. 16, 2018
Pleasanton, California

Barbara Starr Christensen passed away peacefully in her home on Tuesday, October 16th in Pleasanton CA with her daughter and son-in-law lovingly caring for her. Barbara was born in Arizona in 1939, and grew up in both San Francisco and Walnut Creek, California. She graduated from Las Lomas High School in 1957. Distinct as a woman of her era, Barbara truly had a love for adventure.  Following high school, Barbara decided to move to Hawaii, where she worked as a tour directress and immersed herself in the beauty of the islands. After Hawaii, she returned to San Francisco, where she was employed by both Bechtel & Standard Oil.  While working at Standard Oil, Barbara met her husband William Christensen, who encouraged her to continue to pursue her love of travel by joining him at Matson Luxury Cruise Lines. Together, they traveled throughout the South Pacific and Australia. In February of 1967, when her only child, Laurel was born, Barbara transitioned into civilian life as a full-time mother. During her daughter’s formative years in grade school, Barbara was active as the President of St. Dunstan’s Women’s Club in Millbrae CA, doing fundraising for the church and school. In 1983, Barbara joined the food service industry, working for companies such as Bromar, as their western regional sales manager.  Barbara retired in 2008 and enjoyed living near her family. She spent her time doting on her most treasured grandchildren, her trusted companion Cookie, walking on Main Street, reading, and listening to classical music. She was active in both hiking and sailing clubs. One of Barbara’s proudest accomplishments was completing a 26.2-mile marathon supporting the Leukemia Society at the age of 62. Most recently, Barbara served in her community by deploying her food service background through working for Open Heart Kitchen, providing meals for those-in-need around the Tri-Valley. Barbara is survived by her daughter Laurel Grillos, son-in-law John Grillos, grandchildren Alexandra Starr Grillos, John Robert Grillos, and her two sisters Marilyn Morton and Pamela Adamson. Barbara’s Celebration of Life service will be held at 11am on November 3rd at the Old St Raymond’s church: 6600 Donlon Way, Dublin, CA. Memorial donations may be made to Open Heart Kitchen at www.donate.openheartkitchen.org