Lasting Memories

Barbara Kaplan
June 20, 1952-July 30, 2025
Menlo Park, California

Barbara Kaplan passed away at her home in Menlo Park. Born and raised in Wisconsin, Barbara studied Art History at the University of Wisconsin before earning her masters degree from Rutgers University. After getting married, she lived much of her adult life in Portland, Oregon, before moving with her family to the Bay Area in the mid-1990s.

Barbara began her career as a speech pathologist but dedicated most of her life to being a stay-at-home mom, an enthusiastic school volunteer, a substitute teacher, and then a doting grandmother. In each of those roles, she embraced her creative thinking and love for arts and crafts to find ways to make learning fun. She enjoyed watching movies, going to Broadway musicals, participating in her book club of over 40 years and indulging in chocolate desserts - especially her chocolate-covered strawberries, which will be remembered by many.

Barbara is survived by her husband Larry Kaplan, her children Lauren Crockett (Cameron) and Valerie Kaplan, and her three incredible grandchildren. She is also survived by sister Karen Wilson and brother John Marsh.

The family will be holding a small and private service to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, they kindly request donations be made in Barbara’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to support the research and treatment of catastrophic pediatric diseases.