Barbara Chmela, a woman of love and strength, gracefully departed this world on June 2, 2024. She was born on October 2, 1935, in Flushing, New York, to her adoring parents Louis and Mary Haluza. Barbara was the cherished mother of Robert Chmela, William Chmela (Valerie), and Ann (Juan Pastor). She was the loving grandmother of Andrew Pastor, Brandon Pastor, and Victoria Pastor. Barbara was surrounded by the love of her siblings throughout her life, including the late Mary Lou (Alfred Lauwa), the late Dorothy (Philip Gentry), the late John Haluza, Irene (John Gwinnett), and Louis Haluza (Helen). She held the esteemed position of matriarch within her family, providing love, guidance, and support to all.
Known for her culinary skills, Barbara's kitchen was a sanctuary of delicious aromas. She whipped up the most divine chocolate chip cookies, enjoyed by all who were fortunate enough to taste them. As each day waned, she indulged herself with a sweet dessert, savoring the simple pleasures of life.
Her talents extended to sewing. With a needle and thread in hand, Barbara crafted wonders, from cuddly pillows and stuffed animals to elegant dresses and elaborate costumes. But, her creativity knew no bounds. She was also a talented artist who captured the beauty of the world in sketches that mesmerized all who beheld them. Barbara loved music in all its forms, and often listened to songs by Frank Sinatra. Her eclectic taste inspired her children's love for the Beatles, and fueled her own passion for melodious tunes. She cheered passionately for the Yankees, her love for baseball rivaling her devotion to a good old-fashioned movie night, complete with her favorite classics. Her days were often brightened by the daily challenge of the Jumble puzzle in the newspaper, a pastime she relished with delight. Her affection for cats was very well-known, and she found solace and joy in their company.
However, it was not just the flavors of her kitchen that filled her heart; it was the warmth of her connections. In moments of quiet reflection, Barbara found comfort in the voices of her loved ones over the phone. Her family fondly referred to these conversations as the "Haluza Pipeline," where she and her siblings shared misconstrued details of their lives and the intricacies of their daily meals. They concluded each call with their signature phrase, "I'm going to go and have my dessert." With a voice as sweet as her chocolate chip cookies, she also serenaded her loved ones, filling their hearts with warmth and laughter. Her sense of humor was infectious, and her stories never failed to bring a smile to the faces of those around her. Barbara was an adventurer at heart, whisking her children and nieces away to exciting destinations, from the frosty embrace of the ice skating rink to the sun-kissed shores of the beach.
Barbara's kindness and extraordinary patience endeared her to everyone she met. She was a constant presence in the lives of her grandchildren, attending their activities and special occasions, and spoiling them with her generosity. Barbara's spirit of celebration was contagious, as she reveled in birthdays and holidays, ensuring that each moment was marked with heartfelt cards and cherished memories. Her strength and resilience were unwavering, a woman of hope and inspiration to all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the visitation, which will be held on Monday, June 10th, 2024, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at Vernon C. Wagner Funeral Homes, located at 125 W. Old Country Road, Hicksville, New York 11801. A Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday, June 11th, 2024, at 11:15 am at Holy Family Church in Hicksville, New York. Barbara will be laid to rest at Flushing Cemetery in Flushing, New York, following the Mass. Her legacy of love and compassion will live on in all of our hearts forever.
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