Barbara J. Trapani

Barbara Jean (Kozar) Trapani, was uncommon. A woman of devotion, generosity, deep faith, compassion and humility, she lived her days with selfless purpose, constantly thinking about what she could do to make life easier or better for others.

Barbara, 78, passed from this life peacefully Tuesday morning, July 30, 2024 at Mayo Hospital in Eau Claire, WI. She spent her last days surrounded by her family and friends, doing what she cherished most – sharing and showing love. Her passing came suddenly, as the effects of a lung disease rapidly took their course. She had endured many health battles through the years, most recently fighting heart and lung issues. While she eventually lost her physical battle with those afflictions – her spirit and faith never wavered. 

Barbara was known for her sincerity, genuine kindness and generosity. She loved her family and her God with intent and firm conviction. She was the friend, mentor, mother, wife and grandma everyone knew they could count on. She believed in people and saw their good – even when they and everyone else didn’t. She gave amazing hugs and wrote the sweetest most genuine notes of encouragement, love and hope. She believed in goodness and spent a lifetime trying to spread it.

Barbara was born, July 16, 1946 in Akron, OH. She was youngest of two children born to Edward and Geraldine Kozar. Barbara and her older brother Edward, Jr. grew up in a home that was centered around faith in God, hard work and service to others. Those core values remained at the top of her priorities throughout her life.

Always an excellent student, Barbara graduated from Akron Garfield High School in 1964. She was a member of the National Honor Society and earned scholarship offers to attend the University of Akron. Her goal had been to become a physician, but as she often did, Barbara put aside personal pursuits to do something she thought was even more important - Following God’s direction and purpose for her life.

Barbara met her husband Carl Trapani, while she was still in high school. They married on July 31, 1965, forging a bond of commitment, support, love and respect that endured for 59 years. Their love was a partnership - one that centered on their commitment to each other, their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and their mutual devotion to serving others.

As Carl moved into full-time ministry, Barbara was always “his right hand.” They served congregations in Ohio, Indianapolis, IN and Eau Claire, WI and assisted ministries in Israel, Italy and throughout the world.

Barbara worked behind the scenes, teaching, mentoring and sharing. She was innovative and organized – developing and implementing ground-breaking youth and college-age ministry programs that helped launch a stream of successful lives.

While Barbara approached every role of church service with passion and heart, she always found time to be an engaged, attentive and loving wife and mother. Her home, her children, grandchildren and her husband were cherished gifts that she poured her heart and soul into every day.

Barbara found joy gathering with her family, playing party games and hosting holiday meals and celebrations. She was an avid and wide-ranging reader. She always enjoyed a good story.

Barbara is preceded in death by her father and mother (Edward and Geraldine Kozar). She is survived by a brother Edward (Lois) Kozar, Jr, her devoted husband Carl Trapani, her children Todd (Starla) Trapani, Mark (Shawna) Trapani, Angela (Kent) Taylor, her beloved grandchildren (Victoria Trapani, Andrew (Abby) Mundinac, Grant Trapani, Vincent Trapani, Molly Mundinac, Roman Trapani and Tate Trapani), as well as many cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

The Trapani family thanks the palliative team, nurses, doctors (especially Dr. Kotsis) and care providers who treated Barbara with dignity, care and support during her final days.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider contributing to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or other charitable services in her name.

Services held at Faith Church in Eau Claire, WI on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 1 pm with visitation taking place at church an hour prior to the service.  Service will begin promptly at 1 pm. Private family committal service will take place at a later time in Rest Haven Cemetery in the Town of Washington.  

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com.

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph  Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.  

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