Barbara M. Grisgraber, age 87, peacefully entered into eternal rest on March 18, 2022 at home with her family by her side. She was beloved wife of Edwin G. Grisgraber for 65 years. Barbara was born in Milford on May 3, 1934, daughter of the late Edward and Mary Kammritz of Milford, CT.
Barbara was a graduate of Milford High School in 1952 and went on to graduate from Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing in 1955. It was in nursing school that she met the love of her life her husband Edwin. As a longtime resident of Shelton, Barbara was an active member of Huntington Congregational Church serving on many committees and along with her friend Arlene Wells, operated the Huntington Congregational Nursery school for over 20 years in the 80’s and 90’s.
In 1989, Barbara was one of the founding members of the Parish Nurse program started by the Rev. Fred Erson, former Director of Pastoral care at Griffin Hospital. She enlisted several nurses from her parish including her daughter Linda to support a belief that it was the whole body, mind and spirit that was a necessity for a healthy community. She was honored in 2008 by “Women Making a Difference in the Valley” for her work with the Parish Nurse program.
Well after her retirement, Barbara enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. She loved watching her granddaughter as young rider on her horse Paris at Ripton Farm. Barbara was wonderful at making everyone feel comfortable at her daughters’ family picnics and Sunday dinners were a family affair where all were welcome.
In addition to her husband Edwin, she is survived by her daughters Linda Grisgraber A.P.R.N, Deborah Grisgraber, Karen Crosby, and cherished granddaughter Heather Grisgraber of Shelton, CT. She is survived by her sister Margaret Sanford of Idaho, and many nieces and nephews across the country.
On Wednesday, March 23, 2022, friends may call from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at the Riverview Funeral Home, 390 River Rd., Shelton. Barbara’s life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at the parlor. Masks are required within the funeral home. Her interment will follow at Lawn Cemetery, South. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations in Barbara’s name be made to the Valley Parish Nurse Program or the Shelton Animal Shelter. Friends may leave condolences at www.riverviewfh.com.
