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Barbara Goldberg Bandel
July 18, 1947 - January 31, 2025
Barbara Bandel, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on
January 31, 2025, in Denver, CO, at the age of 77. Born in Buffalo, NY, to Shirley and
Leonard Goldberg, of blessed memory, Barbara carried a warmth and kindness that
touched everyone she met.
She was predeceased by her husband of 29 years, Henry Bandel, and is survived by her
three children, whom she considered her greatest accomplishments: son Andy Bandel
(Wendy) of Sherrills Ford, NC, daughter Jennifer Olson of Denver, CO, and daughter
Karen Isenberg (Michael) of Providence, RI. She was a proud and loving grandmother of
five to Alyssa Bandel, Jacob Bandel, Ruthie Olson, Gabe Olson, and Samantha Isenberg,
as well as a devoted dog-grandma to many beloved pets over the years. She is also
survived by brother Richard Goldberg of Darien, IL, nieces and nephews and many
cousins.
A true social butterfly, Barbara had the ability to form meaningful connections wherever
she went. From her early years in Buffalo to her time in Ithaca, New York; Raleigh, North
Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; and finally Denver—she built lasting friendships and
communities that enriched both her life and the lives of those around her. During her 25
years in Raleigh raising her family, Barbara balanced being a devoted mother who rarely
missed a recital, game, or school event with part-time work, including a cherished role at
Temple Beth Or. Later in life, she spent eight wonderful years in Nashville before settling
in Denver for the last decade of her life. There she found a welcoming community at
Overture that became a source of comfort and joy.
Barbara was a talented crafter, filling her home with beautiful cross-stitch samplers and
artwork. In later years, she found a passion for knitting, finding joy and friendship in local
yarn stores in Nashville and Denver. Her creative spirit was matched by her love of
storytelling—she delighted in sharing funny anecdotes, discussing the latest TV shows
and movies she watched, and sharing about good times with her friends. She was also a
master at keeping in touch, whether through regular phone calls, emails, or Facebook messages,
ensuring that her friends and extended family always felt connected.
An online gathering of family and friends will be planned to celebrate Barbara’s life and
share cherished memories. In honor of her legacy, those who knew and loved her are
encouraged to reach out to a friend, share a story, and donate to a charity of their choice.
May her memory be a blessing.