Barbara Shassetz

January 23, 1937 - January 18, 2026

Barbara Shassetz, a devoted mother and grandmother and a lifelong educator, passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026. Born on January 23, 1937, in Grand Rapids, Michigan Barbara lived a life defined by curiosity, service, and a deep commitment to learning.

Barbara dedicated more than 50 years of her life to teaching elementary and middle school kids; a calling that took her across the world. Her career brought her to classrooms in Japan, Hawaii, China, and Spain, and ultimately to the deserts of Arizona, where she spent more than 30 years teaching in the West Side Arizona schools. Throughout her career, she was known for her discipline, compassion, and belief in the power of education to open doors and change lives. Teaching was not simply her profession—it was her purpose.

Barbara was a vivacious woman with a spirit and smile that charmed everyone she met. She approached life with energy, warmth, and an unmistakable presence that filled a room. She has made a lasting impression on friends, family, colleagues, and students alike.

She was the loving mother of three children: Rick Shassetz, Anne Shassetz Clair, and Susan Shassetz Boennighausen. She was a devoted and selfless Grammy to her grandchildren, Sarah, Ryan, and Annika Shassetz, and Evan and Andrew Boennighausen, all of whom brought her great joy.

Barbara is survived by her sister, Judith Sundberg, her husband Walter B Sundberg. She was preceded in death by her husband, Major Larry R. Shassetz, on August 16, 1994, and her sister Penny Sample of Kokomo, Indiana.

Barbara will be remembered for her intellect, independence, and generous heart, as well as for the countless students whose lives she shaped over five decades of teaching. Her legacy lives on through her family and the many communities she served around the world.

A memorial service will be held at Church of Litchfield Park at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 21. A celebration of life will also be held at the family's childhood home in Litchfield Park.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.