Barbara Marie Bruchok, 83, was born in Tacoma, WA, on December 24, 1941, to Ralph and Mandy Baldwin. Barbara grew up in Tacoma and graduated from Stadium High School in 1960. After high school, she transitioned into working as an operator for Pacific Northwest Bell.  In 1964, Barbara decided to change careers and work for Pierce County Medical. She decided to prioritize her family and left Pierce County Medical after giving birth to her first child, Patti. In 1967, she expanded her family with the birth of her second child, Kris. In 1980, Barbara returned to working for Pierce County Medical. Throughout this time, Barbara found a community in her neighborhood where she raised her kids alongside her sister Carolyn and her best friends Sharon and Ralph. Barbara enjoyed being around others, especially luncheons at Harbor Lights or a game of Bunco with her friends. After 25 years, Barbara was able to retire from Pierce County Medical.

In her early 50s, her family expanded for the first time in a long time with the birth of her first grandson, Forrest, in 1994. Being a grandmother became a core joy of her life, and in 1999, Barbara was able to share that love and care with her second grandson, Nolan. These two became the priorities of her life. She was an amazing grandma—always willing to babysit or just have the boys spend the night.  Barbara made it to almost every activity Forrest and Nolan were involved in as they grew up. Nolan and Forrest became the pride of her life. Barbara also loved a good mystery and could always be found either reading a mystery book, watching a detective show, or most likely both at the same time.

Barbara is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Michael Baldwin. She is survived by her daughters, Patti (Michael) Vig and Kris (Randy) Tjelde; her grandsons, Forrest and Nolan; her sister, Carolyn Kiffer; her sister-in-law, Debbie Baldwin; and numerous nephews and nieces.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, December 5th, at the Chapel at New Tacoma Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Multicare Hospice.