Barbara M. Kwasnik

Saturday August 26, 2023. Predeceased by her husband Frederick, brother William, sister Audrey, and parents William and Mary. Survived by her 2 daughters Liz (Mike) and Jaimee (Richard), grandsons Brent and Alec, brother Richard, and nephew Rob. Barbara led a full life, graduating Suma Cum Laude from SUNY Brockport with a B.S. in Biology and M.S. in Education. As a biologist, she loved all animals and filled her house with dogs, birds, gerbils, and tropical aquariums. She taught Earth Science and Biology at Churchville Senior High and was a Senior Class Advisor for several years. After 18 years of teaching, Barbara retired. Retirement brought new energy to the next phase of her life. Always the country girl, line dancing and horseback riding, she now needed room for her horses too. She and Fred built their dream home in Churchville on 28 acres that backed up to Black Creek and proceeded to build a barn with multiple pastures to house their 3 horses. They were very active in the Black Creek Riders group and made several trips to ranches, rodeos, and trail rides out west. As they aged, they found themselves horseback riding less, and spending more time with their dogs. Over the years, Barbara acquired eight Australian Shepherds – Holly, Misty, Lilly, Diamond, CeCe, Brandy, Kody, and Presley – many from her favorite breeder and veterinarian “Dr. Sue” of Silver Screen Australian Shepherds. She actively showed four of her Aussies for obedience, agility, tracking, and rally. She collected more ribbons and titles than their home could display. A feared competitor in the show ring and published author in the Australian Shepherd Journal, Barbara was a much sought after instructor at the Dog Obedience Training Center of Rochester, NY (DOTCORNY). With Fred’s health declining and needing her dedicated care, Barbara switched gears to cards. She learned to play bridge and was active in a handful of bridge clubs. Widowed, she moved from Churchville to the Victor Legacy so that her daughter and aides could make ageing in place simpler for her. She loved her outdoor walks and befriended many residents and employees at the Legacy. She will be remembered fondly and missed dearly. Private Interment with Celebration of Life TBD at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Lollypop Farm and the Smile Train for childhood cleft palate remediation.