BARBARA LEE SARACOFF

BARBARA LEE SARACOFF

     Barbara (Bobbie) Saracoff, 87, passed on to her heavenly home peacefully Jan. 13, 2025. Born to Elmer and Hattie Taylor Jan. 26, 1937, in Medford, WI, Bobbie was a lifelong educator, devoted wife, mother and grandmother who touched the lives of everyone she met with her unwavering kindness, wisdom, and generosity.

     Bobbie married her beloved husband, Norman Saracoff, Aug. 31, 1958, in Rib Lake, WI. They met at Valprasio University while she was studying education and he was prelaw; they both graduated in 1960. Together, they shared 66 years of love, laughter and a partnership built on faith and dedication. Her family was the heart of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them.

     Bobbie’s impact extended far beyond her home. She was a teacher in every sense of the word, having taught elementary through high school subjects, worked with homebound students, served as a substitute teacher and volunteered for Sunday School and confirmation classes. She also taught swimming lessons, and shared her faith through both church and jail ministry. Bobbie’s passion for teaching was evident in all she did, and she inspired countless individuals to learn, grow and live with purpose.

     Throughout her life, she embodied a love for both simple pleasures and meaningful pursuits, finding joy in the everyday and purpose in her passions.

     A woman of deep faith, Bobbie was committed to Bible study, continually seeking to grow in her spiritual journey. Her strong faith shaped her life and actions, inspiring others to live with love, kindness, and a sense of purpose.

     Bobbie’s spiritual gift was hospitality. She shared her culinary talents with family and friends (fruit soup at Christmas and chocolate mayonnaise cake for birthdays) always ensuring that no one left her table hungry. Her meals were more than just nourishment; they were a reflection of her care, her heart, and her deep desire to bring people together.

     She had a passion for reading; the Bible was her favorite book. Bobbie loved her vegetable garden and free form bouquets of “ditch flowers.” She was also a skilled Bridge player, enjoying the challenge of the game and the camaraderie of friends around the table. She and Norm enjoyed travel to Alaska, Japan, China, Thailand, Cambodia, Turkey and European countries.

     Bobbie will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth, wisdom and a life lived with passion, purpose and a joyful spirit.

     She is survived by her family, who will forever remember her love, guidance, and the many ways she enriched their lives: her husband, Norman Saracoff; daughter Jonel (Todd) Brown; three grandchildren: Nicholas (Lynne), Matthew (Amanda) and Lucas Brown; her son, Ty Saracoff; and a brother, John (Fran) Taylor.

     Visitation will be 8 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 24, 2025, at Grace Lutheran Church, 11284 US Hwy 10, Marshfield, WI 54449 with a service at 11 a.m. Internment will be at Lake View Cemetery in Rib Lake.

     Online condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.