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Barbara J Gere
May 16, 1944 - January 14, 2024
Carmichael, California - Barbara passed away peacefully at home, with family by her side, after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. She faced her cancer, as she approached all her challenges in life, with poise and a positive attitude.
She was born in Portland, Oregon to Aloha and Maynard Macy. She attended schools in Oregon, Guam, Texas, and California, graduating from Taft HS in Woodland Hills, CA in 1962. She enrolled at Pierce College in the Fall of 1962 and met Richard "Rick" Gere when he enrolled at Pierce in the Fall of 1963. After Pierce, she worked as a Medical Assistant and when Rick got accepted to dental school at USC, he proposed, and she accepted. They were married in St. Mel Catholic Church in Woodland Hills on June 22, 1968.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Janet; and her stepfather, Philip L Gatten. She is survived by her devoted and loving husband, Rick; by sons, Tim and Andy; her daughter-in-law Kelly; and her three granddaughters, Melody, Kai and Louise.
She always thought of others before herself and she will always be remembered for her beautiful blue eyes, her sweet smile, her kindness, her sense of humor, and her strength in the face of adversity. There will always be a place for her in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved her.
Celebration of Life arrangements pending.
Sacramento Bee 25 February 2024
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Sandra Malek
The first time we met Barb and Rick was when visiting my sister Marita on Maui many years ago. We had such a wonderful time with them both. My husband and Barb especially hit it off. She reminded him so much of his sister. She was such a sweet and wonderful person and so soft spoken and kind We were so fortunate to meet them again for a second time and had an unforgettable afternoon with them. We are praying for Rick and family.
Pat & Ken Adolf
Friend
February 23, 2024
To know Barb, was to love her. She always inspired me to be a better person. She was so sweet, kind, fun loving, calm, brave, happy, relaxed, beautiful inside and out. She was a great listener. I will always remember her joyful spirit, and beautiful smile, the twinkle in her eyes, and all the wonderful times we had together on Maui. She and Rick are those special kind of people you love instantly when you meet them.
My Husband and I feel honored and blessed to have the privilege of knowing them.
Aloha sweet Barb, until we meet again. You will always be in our hearts, We will never forget you
Marita Oppenheimer
Friend
February 22, 2024
The first time we met Barb and Rick was when visiting my sister Marita on Maui many years ago. We had such a wonderful time with them both. My husband and Barb especially hit it off. She reminded him so much of his sister. She was such a sweet and wonderful person and so soft spoken and kind We were so fortunate to meet them again for a second time and had an unforgettable afternoon with them. We are praying for Rick and family.
Pat & Ken Adolf
Friend
February 23, 2024
Barbara is and was a super human being.
My heart is with Rick, Tim, and Andy.
John Mounier
San Francisco & Los Angeles
John Mounier
Friend
February 22, 2024
The first time we met Barb and Rick was when visiting my sister Marita on Maui many years ago. We had such a wonderful time with them both. My husband and Barb especially hit it off. She reminded him so much of his sister. She was such a sweet and wonderful person and so soft spoken and kind We were so fortunate to meet them again for a second time and had an unforgettable afternoon with them. We are praying for Rick and family.
Pat & Ken Adolf
Friend
February 23, 2024
From Classmate Jay Van Orden:
I am very sorry to "hear" this I wish i had known her much more than i did...jay
Michael Clinite
I am very sadden to hear of Barbara's passing. At Taft, She was one of the most beautiful, pleasant, and gracious young ladies I have ever known. Our paths crossed again when I discovered she had married one of my fraternity brothers at USC Dental School. I said to myself.....way to go Rick!!!
Rick, my heart goes out to you for your loss.
Be well
MAC
Camille DeSimone (Sullivan)
My thoughts have been about Barbara since she passed. We had so many fun times together. She was the best friend in so many ways. Thoughtful and kind and very adventuresome.I am sorry I didn't follow up after the last reunion we were together. Great memories. Prayers to you Rick, and the family.