Barbara Machinchick

Barbara was born Barbara Stephanie Puglia, in Philadelphia, PA on September 6, 1938. She graduated from West Catholic High School in Philadelphia with high honors and as a distinguished member of the debate team. She earned her Bachelor’s in Business Administration from St. Joseph’s College, and spent her early career working for the FBI in Philadelphia, under J. Edgar Hoover’s leadership. Barbara later married Fred Machinchick, and left the FBI to raise their son, Michael. She lived in various states with her family, including Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Texas, Minnesota, and Florida.

Barbara spent her retirement years living in the Solivita community in Kissimmee, FL. She and Fred enjoyed many interests together, most notably the Solivita Travel Club, with which they took many cruises and trip to various parts of the world. Fred passed in December, 2010, but Barbara continued travelling and also became a member of Solivita’s Classy Red Hatters Club, The Widows Club, The Singles Club, and St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Barbara will be most remembered for her vivacious presence, her love of people, animals and the great state of Texas, as well as her kindness and generosity. She is survived by her only son, Michael Frederick Machinchick, daughter-in-law Allison Jean Machinchick, grandson Michael Frederick Machinchick, Jr., and granddaughter, Kathryn Elizabeth Machinchick, all of Cromwell, CT.