Barbara Claire Pekel

Barbara Claire Pekel, age 58, of Loveland, OH, died at home with family by her side, February 16, 2011, after a long battle with cancer. She was born Nov. 24, 1952, in Harvey, IL, to the late Walter and Claire Duke, and grew up in Hamilton, OH. She graduated from Taft Senior High School in 1971, and received a bachelor of arts degree from Miami University in 1975. Barbara married Herbert Thomas Pekel on May 6, 1978 (5678) and family became the center of her life. She loved spending time with their daughter, Allison Patricia Pekel. Barbara loved antiquing and decorating, and as Allison grew up, the pair spent countless hours together traveling to flea markets and antique shops. She was active with the Cincy Street Rods, a hot rod club her husband belonged to; an avid tennis player; a book lover; and a member of the Bramblettes who were friends and neighbors. Barbara is survived by her husband, her daughter, a twin sister, Bonnie Kathleen Gill of Simpsonville S.C., and a brother, Steven S. Duke of Evanston, IL. Friends and family are welcome to share memories, Friday, Feb. 18th, from 6-8 pm at Craver-Riggs Funeral Home and Crematory, 529 Main St., Milford 45150. Services will be private at the convenience of the family. If desired, memorials in her name may be directed to Hospice of Cincinnati, PO Box 633597, Cincinnati, OH 45263.