Barbara B. Shapiro

Madison -- Barbara B. Shapiro, age 79, died of cancer at her home on Friday, May 15, 2009 .   Barbara was born in Fond du Lac , WI on November 24, 19 29 to Gladys (Rogge) and Theodore Brenner Sr.   She graduated from Goodrich High School in 1947 and went on to gain her BA degree in history from MacMurray College in 1951.   She taught in Blanchardville, Beloit , and Riverside , California . She finished her teaching career in Germany and Japan teaching English and History in the military's school system.   She was known as a gifted teacher with an adventuresome spirit.   She loved to travel and saw much of the world, but was especially fond of her yearly trips to Mexico .   However, her cabin in Northern Wisconsin was where she was most at home.   She subsequently became a realtor and worked with Parkwood Realty, Anchor Realty, Caldwell-Banker Realty and Stark Realty companies.   She was awarded the Million Dollar Sales Award several years during her career.   While in Japan , Barbara met her husband, Dr. Robert B. Shapiro.   They were united in marriage on August 2, 19 64 in Fond du Lac .   Together they raised a family for over 40 years in Madison .   Barbara is survived by her husband of 44 years; Dr. Robert B. Shapiro of Madison, two sons; Stephen (Keli) of Onalaska, and Richard (Jeffery) of Chicago, IL, two grandsons; Jacob and Sidney of Onalaska.   She is also survived by her three brothers; John, David and Theodore Brenner Jr.   Barbara will be remembered for the emotional spark she had in her home, work and with her friends.   Her humor, honesty and commonsensical approach to whatever she did made her presence felt.   Our house and hearts will be empty without her.   Family and friends are invited to a memorial service at ORCHARD RIDGE UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, 1501 Gilbert Rd. , Madison , WI on Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at 1:00 p.m. with Reverend Winton Boyd officiating.   A visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of services.   Private family entombment will be held at a later date at Rienzi Cemetery in Fond du Lac , WI .   Barbara expressed her desire for donations to be sent to Orchard Ridge United Church of Christ, 1501 Gilbert Rd. , Madison , WI 53711 .   The family would like to extend their thanks to Dr. Barbara Stowe-Carpenter and the staff at HospiceCare for all their special efforts and gifts given to Barbara and her family.