When Barbara was 15, she traveled to Baltimore. It was there, at a Park School dance, that she would ultimately meet her future husband, Samuel Himmelrich. Despite the long distance, the two remained in touch. When she moved to Baltimore to pursue a degree at Goucher College, they began dating in-person on a regular basis and soon became engaged. 

Like many of her generation, Barbara would leave college early to get married. Years later, she would return, after raising four children, to earn her bachelor’s degree in English. She went on to receive a master’s in social work from the University of Maryland School of Social Work, a degree she believed would help her be a better volunteer. 

And volunteer she did. In keeping with her values of tikkun olam, she sat on the boards of organizations that ranged from the United Way of Central Maryland and the Maryland Institute College of Art to the House of Ruth, Sinai Hospital and the Park School. 

And of course, The Associated, where she held multiple positions. Over the years, Barbara served as The Associated from Campaign Chair to president of The Associated’s Women’s Division. She spearheaded the General Assembly of the Council of Jewish Federations when it came to Baltimore in 1992, and she credits Carole Sibel, of blessed memory, for her hard work in making the event a success. 

In 1997, she rose to become The Associated’s Chair of the Board. It became the first time that The Associated would be led by a spouse of a former chairman. 

According to Barbara, three issues dominated the 1997 Annual Campaign that as Board Chair she was determined to address. First was a recession and with the help of dedicated volunteers and professionals, The Associated successfully raised over $22.5 million to address the burgeoning needs. 

Second, was immigration of Jews from the former Soviet Union and the commitment of The Associated to their successful resettlement. And finally, she was passionate about ensuring Jewish survival and identity. 

She once said in an article to the Baltimore Jewish Times, “I hope that I can mobilize the community to move in ways that enhance Judaism, Jewish survival and Jewish continuity.” 

Even at 91, Barbara remained engaged. She was a firm believer that The Associated be involved in efforts to help the entire community, particularly downtown Baltimore. And the wellbeing of The Associated remained close to her heart, as she stayed in contact with Marc B. Terrill and Darrell D. Friedman, former president of The Associated, talking to them on a regular basis about the Jewish community’s future. 

Barbara passed away on October 31, 2022 at the age of 91. May her memory be for a blessing.