Born in Galesburg, IL, Barbara moved to Denver at the age of seven. She went to school in Arvada, singing in the Concert Choir and madrigal group which spawned her interest in music. In college Barbara majored in French Education at the University of Colorado, but continued her participation in the vocal performing arts. Barb also earned a Masters in Education from Oklahoma State University.
She married her husband, Jim, in 1970. When Jim graduated from the Colorado School of Mines as a petroleum engineer, they commenced their lives as “vagabonds,” traveling the world over with Amoco and Nations’ Petroleum. Barbara taught in many of their postings. Besides teaching French, she taught Spanish, German, Texas and American History and English.
Barbara and Jim built their home in Breckenridge in 2000 and have been full time residents for eight years. They have two children, four grandchildren and two dogs. They are active grandparents who truly enjoy participating in the grandkids’ lives.