Barbara M. Sparpana

Barbara M. Sparpana was called home to be with her Lord Jesus on March 6, 2025, in Green Bay, WI, at the age of 71. She was born on February 25, 1954 in Milwaukee, WI to Robert and Harriet (Molter) Sparpana. She was of Christian faith, being baptized in both the Catholic and Baptist churches.

Barb dedicated her life to caring for the sick as a CNA, LPN and RN from 1973 through 2024. She was loved by her patients and co-workers.

Barbara's father's career caused the family to relocate about once a year to various towns throughout Wisconsin, which probably began her love of travel. A notable destination was to her grandfather's place of birth in Italy with her sister, Nancy. She loved traveling to the U.P. and spent many holidays and vacations with her best friend and roommate, Debbie, of 45 years, visiting family. She loved going to concerts and taking pictures of the Manistique lighthouse, the Mackinac Bridge and the Epcot ball. Her love of all animals was her passion. This not only included her Maltese, Bodie, but prior pets and wildlife, as well. She loved her family and friends with all her heart.

Barbara is survived by her sister, Nancy (Daniel) Whitehead of AZ; nephew, Mark (Cindy) Westphal; niece, Jennifer (Mike) Pimenidis; great-nieces and nephews: Michael, Ashley, Jake, Alyssa and great-great-nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is also survived by her best friend, Debbie Schnurer and Debbie's family: Charles and Sally Schnurer, Bob and Jill Schnurer, Kristin and Nathan VandenWymelenberg, Stephen and Rebecca Schnurer and their children: Madelyn, Lillyan, Evalyn, Cora, Layla and Ryker.

She was preceded in death by her parents, infant nephew, David Robert and special friend, Jo.

The family would like to send our sincere appreciation to her caregivers and staff at Aurora BayCare Hospital and all of her prayer warriors. Per Barbara's request, there will be no funeral. We will have a graveside memorial at Fairview Cemetery in Manistique, MI, in the spring.