Barbara Jean Eggemeyer
Barbara passed away peacefully on January 31, 2026, in Santa Barbara at the age of 91.
She was born in Los Angeles, California, on May 16, 1934, the only child of Helen and Guy Mann. She was raised in Arcadia, California, attending Arcadia schools and Pasadena College. While her formal education ended at Pasadena College, her desire for more knowledge continued throughout her life. She met her future husband and love of her life, Ken Eggemeyer, at a dance and they were married in 1955. They were quite a couple, and were affectionately known by friends and each other as Kenny and Babs. After marriage, they lived in Arcadia, CA where their son Jim was born. They moved to Boise, ID for two years but returned to sunny California, first to Arcadia, where their son Steven was born, and then to Riverside. The family moved to Santa Barbara in 1967. Many happy and fun years followed with sailing, camping, golfing, traveling, reading, hiking, playing the piano, gardening, but “certainly not cooking.” Those times came to a halt with the passing of her beloved husband Ken in 2009 after 54 years of marriage.
For many years Barbara worked in the medical office of Dr. Jerome Kay. She later worked as an Administrative Assistant at Valle Verde, retiring from there in 1997. After retiring she volunteered at Cottage Hospital and Goleta Valley Service Club, spreading cheerfulness with her delightful smile and witty conversation.
Her greatest joy was her family and spending time with her grandchildren. She also had many life long friends whom she loved dearly. Her kind heart, good nature, and joyful presence will be missed by all.
Barbara is survived by her son Jim and his wife Carolyn of Menlo Park; son Steven of Orcutt; grandchildren Nick of Goleta, Cayla of Santa Barbara, and Anna of Menlo Park.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Maravilla, The Key, VNA Health Hospice Care, and especially Jami, her beloved caregiver over the past few years, for the loving care they provided her and the family.
A memorial celebration of life will be held on a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in her name to the Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 820 N. Fairview, Goleta, CA 93117
