Barbara Ellen Chiesa

Barbara Ellen Chiesa, née Buschbacher, entered into eternal rest on March 11, 2026 in Warren, Michigan. Born on December 1, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, Barbara lived a rich life with devotion to family and a passion for life’s simpler joys.

Barbara was a cherished mother of John Sherman and Michael (Joy) Sherman; stepmother of Bobbi (Michael) Young and Brenda (Steve) Powell; grandmother of Sara Chiesa (Patrick McNally), Stephanie (Michael) McCabe, Rachel Lents, Nicholas Jaworski, and Sabrina Jaworski; great-grandmother of Michael Ralph McCabe; sister of Michael Buschbacher; sister-in-law of Maryalice Buschbacher; aunt of Rita (Jake) Modrzynski and Adam Buschbacher; and great-aunt of Margaret Ruth Modrzynski - all of whom loved her and will miss her.

Barbara was predeceased by her beloved husband Ralph Chiesa, whose partnership had been a cornerstone of her life. Also preceding her in death were her parents, Adam and Aurelia Buschbacher; her cherished brother, John Buschbacher; and her dear stepdaughter Robbi Chiesa, all of whom she remembered fondly and honored throughout her life.

An avid reader and enthusiastic poker player, Barbara found joy and relaxation in the pages of books and in friendly and competitive card games that brought family and friends together. Her intellectual curiosity was a driving force throughout her life. Her memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who were blessed to know her. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to the American Heart Association.