Barbara Ann Kirschner

February 13, 1918 – January 24, 2015

Barbara was born and raised in Yakima, Washington. She grew up surrounded by music. Her mother and father were both music teachers and Barbara spent her youth playing the piano at every opportunity. In 1939, she graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Washington School of Music. She and Bill Kirschner were married in 1940. Shortly after their marriage they moved to Vashon Island where they spent the remainder of their days. Barbara was a lover of classical music and a very accomplished pianist. She spent many hours at her piano and would often have friends over to play duets with her. She was a supportive wife to her husband Bill, the founder of K2 Ski Corporation, and gracious host to his numerous business acquaintances as well as family friends. In the early years of K2, Barbara and her lady friends worked at the factory helping in the final production stages of the skis: applying tops, engraving and packaging. Barbara loved having family and friends come and visit and enjoy a swim in her pool, which was always open to any who dropped by. Barbara was a 50 year member of PEO, her first chapter being Chapter CS in Seattle. Later, when traveling to Seattle became too difficult, she joined Chapter HU on Vashon.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Bill, and is survived by her children Bill (Susie), Bruce (Karen) and Becky (David), her grandchildren Brad and Vicki, Kimi and Kalie, Elly and Greg and 11 great grandchildren.

Barbara was a happy, jolly woman who always had a smile on her face and laughter in her heart. She will be greatly missed.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on February 8, 2015 from 2:00 – 4:00 at Vashon Golf and Swim Club.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the University of Washington School of Music (Friends of Music Fund) or a charity of your choice.

Paid Obituary.