Barbara Anne Hartzheim

Barbara Anne Hartzheim, 84, of Neenah, WI, passed away on August 26, 2024. Born on April 19, 1940, in Neenah, WI, she was the beloved daughter of George Robert Goodrich and Marian (Eisch) Goodrich.

Barbara, known fondly as Barb, led a life marked by dedication, hard work, and an unwavering love for her family. Early in her family life, Barb managed to work while having 6 kids. Barb made juggling family life and work life look easy. Looking back, we know the sacrifices she made to make ends meet. She was able to drive school bus for Head Start, volunteering at the elementary school and hosting Cub Scouts. Her journey shifted and she began in the hospitality industry, where she quickly worked her way up to a managerial position in housekeeping. Barb's career took an exciting turn when she joined Chef Fresh Pizza in Menasha. Her commitment and passion for the business were evident when she eventually bought the restaurant, much to the delight of her children who enjoyed free pizza during those years. After five successful years of ownership, Barb and her husband sold the business for a profit, entering a brief retirement.

However, Barb’s strong work ethic wouldn't allow her to stay idle for long. She found joy and purpose working at the Menasha Senior Center, where she spent 15 years delivering meals and managing the center as well. Her dedication to her work ethic was matched only by her zest for life.

Barb was an adventurer at heart, seizing every opportunity to travel. She loved exploring the Outer Banks of North Carolina, visiting the east coast, and testing her luck in Las Vegas. Cruises were a favorite pastime for Barb and her late husband Ron, with whom she shared 60 wonderful years of marriage. More recently, she found joy in relaxing by the ocean in the Dominican Republic. In addition to traveling, she enjoyed a busy social life playing bingo, putting together rummage sales and playing cards with her friends at Lighthouse Landings.

Despite her many professional achievements and adventures, Barb's true passion was her family. She had a unique ability to bring people together, organizing a memorable family vacation to the east coast where 35 family members gathered in an oceanfront house. Her devotion to her family was unparalleled, and she made sure that they always came first.

Barbara was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ron Hartzheim Sr. in 2019, as well as son Dan Hartzheim in 2024, and cherished Granddaughter Shannon Eick, sister Pam Sanchez, and brother Richard Eisch.

She is survived by her loving children , April Hartzheim, Ron Hartzheim Jr. (Angila), Shelly Schwarten (Dean), Todd Hartzheim, and Tammy Hawkins; her cherished grandchildren: Jessie Hartzheim (Joey Naughton), Michelle Mugerauer (Scott), Amber McQuillan (Andy), Alex Schwarten (Ramsey), Courtney Yang (Tommy), Josh Hartzheim (Tiffany), Kody Hawkins (Danielle Popke), Kyle Hawkins (Bryanna Strong) and Sylvia Hartzheim; and Great-Grandchildren, Madison, Natalie, Hailey, Jaycie, Kaiden, Brycen, Emerie, Jaxson, Kayden, Kylie, Max, Laynee and Tyler. Barbara also leaves behind her best friend and sister, Sue Clayton (Bill) and younger sister Debra Demler (Mark Workesin).

Barb has had many pets over the years whom all got treated like royalty. Her current pet “Pebbles” is one of the coolest cats you would ever meet, and was a great companion to Barb. Pebbles will be cared for by a family member.

Barbara Anne Hartzheim will be remembered for her incredible work ethic, her adventurous spirit, and most of all, her deep love and dedication to her family. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday September 21st from 11am-4pm at The Bridgewood Resort Hotel, 1000 Cameron Way, Neenah WI 54956. Formal Eulogy to be presented from 1pm to 2pm.