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Of Chelsea, age 92, died Friday, February 17, 2023, at her home. She was born December 25, 1930, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the daughter of Gerald and Dorothy (Schade) Hepner.

Barbara lived on Pontiac Street and went to Donovan Elementary School which was on Wall Street. From there she went to Slauson Jr. High. High School was at Ann Arbor High School. She attended Alexander Beauty School and later had a beauty shop on Ann Street near the corner of Glen.

In her younger years, Barbara had great fun ice skating in the winter and swimming all summer long at the beach which was located on Long Shore Dr. on the north side of Ann Arbor. She and her sister, Gerry, had a great group of friends that they played with every day. She really had a great childhood.

Barbara drove a school bus in Ann Arbor and Chelsea for many years. She also worked at Arbor Hospice for seven years.

In 1952, Barbara married Robert B. Preston in Angola, Indiana. He preceded her in death on August 7, 1987. She is survived by their three children, John Preston of Roscommon, Robert (Linda) Preston of West Branch, and Gayle McMillen also of West Branch; six grandchildren, Laura, Robert, Amanda, Travis, Alex, and Tina; five great-grandchildren, Cory, Preston, Kia, Violet, Hayden, and one on the way; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Harold Crist; sister, Geraldine True; and granddaughter, McKinley McMillen.

A private graveside service will be held in April. Memorial contributions may be made to the WAVE bus. Arrangements were entrusted to Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea.


 

 

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Comments  

#4 Karen Howley Eisley 2023-02-24 15:06
Many great memories of Bob and Barb. I had forgotten that Barb grew up near our family home in Ann Arbor. Our thoughts are with you all.
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#3 Linda King 2023-02-24 02:04
My thoughts and prayers go out to all the Preston family, she was a great lady, she loved to cook and have have family gatherings. She will be so missed by all
Love to all, Linda
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#2 Sally J Nimitz 2023-02-23 09:11
My deepest sympathy goes out to Barb's, children Bobbie, Johnnie, Gayle Ann. My mom drove school bus with Barb also. Sadly, my mom Charolette Richard died in her late 40's. We always loved visiting the family on Wagner Road. I remember getting haircuts there. Barb was kind and like a mother to me. We kept in touch over the years, and I will greatly miss her. Barb, I loved our phone chats now you can rest in peace. Love you My Dear Friend.
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#1 Don Noye 2023-02-21 19:45
My mother, Barbara Noye, drove school bus in Ann Arbor with Barb for quite some time. They were good friends for many years. I know they would go out to eat and always kept up with each other's families. In recent years, my mom's health has declined and she has not been able to keep in contact with Barb like she would have liked. My mom frequently speaks of Barb and I know she will be saddened to hear of Barb's passing. Sending condolences to your family from the Noye Family. May happy memories provide you comfort at this difficult time.
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