Barbara A. Wildasin of East Hempfield Township departed Brethren Village for her transition to Heaven to reunite with her parents and brothers. Barbara was born and raised in Hanover, the daughter of the late Robert and Helen Doll. Barb passed on Friday, March 14, a week after celebrating her 86th birthday with family and friends.
Barb enjoyed good health and an active lifestyle, before enduring several health challenges later in life. She had a benign brain tumor removed in 2002, resulting in several years of seizures before complete recovery. In 2012, Barb suffered a debilitating stroke, resulting in aphasia which robbed her of her ability to read (her first love), speak and write. More recently, Barb had to cope with complications from lung cancer. She endured five hospitalizations during her last year of life, but always kept a positive and pleasant attitude. It must be said that throughout her health challenges, her friends, caregivers, nurses and acquaintances still complimented her infectious smile. She was a very pleasant and courageous lady.
Barb was the wife of Robert Wildasin. They were married in 1967. In addition to Bob, Barb is survived by a son, Kurtis and wife Nicole of Hershey. She is also survived by a sister, Holly (Guy) Elliot of Hanover; Sisters-in-Law Teresa Doll and Colleen Doll Dubs, both of Hanover; Brothers-in-Law Michael Wildasin (Susan) of Mt. Joy and James Wildasin (Joan) of North Carolina. Barb is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Barb graduated from Eichelberger High School (Hanover) where she was active in many activities. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary English from Shippensburg State College and later earned certification as a Reading Instructor from Temple University.
Barb began her teaching career at Southwestern High School in Hanover and later taught English and Reading in the Millersburg Area School District. After moving to Lancaster County in 1973, Barb was a Reading tutor in the Columbia School District and a substitute teacher at Hempfield. Within weeks of her death, Barb was contacted by former students.
Barb was active in local groups and enjoyed many activities. She formed numerous reading groups and knitting groups and enjoyed the theater, especially the Fulton and EPAC. Reading was Barb’s passion, an ability she unfortunately lost after suffering aphasia as the result of her stroke in 2012. She was an active member of Hempfield Woman’s Club since 1974, serving as President for two terms and enthusiastically supporting their many activities.
An active member of Zion Lutheran Church since 1973, Barb was active with several groups, including Women of Zion, helping form the Yarn Ministry, and singing in the choir prior to her stroke.
Despite losing her ability to speak and read, Barb and Bob enjoyed trips to Lewes, DE where she never tired of viewing the sunsets, the ocean waves, sightseeing, dining, and counting the deer at Henlopen State Park. She remained able to appreciate the simple pleasures of life.
The family would like to thank the caring nurses and aides at Brethren Village and the wonderful ladies from Hospice.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Zion Lutheran Church, Landisville, on Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be held from 9:30 until the time of the service. A luncheon social will follow the service.
If desired, contributions in Barb’s memory may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 85 E. Brandt Blvd., Landisville, PA 17538 and/or Hospice and Community Care, 685 Good Drive, Lancaster, PA 17604.
