Barbara Ann Harbrecht (nee Van Dinter) was born August 23, 1935 in the family home to Margaret (nee Safranek) and Barney Van Dinter. Barb spent an adventurous childhood, moving multiple times to accommodate her father's Coast Guard career. Memories were made in Duluth, MN, Grove City, PA, Manitowoc, WI, and during multiple trips to cousins' farms in the Little Chute area.

Barb graduated from Bay View High School and Marquette University. After graduation, Barb enjoyed all the adventures that New York City and her Manhattan neighborhood could provide. She returned to Milwaukee after marrying Arthur Harbrecht and welcoming her first child, Brian. Future stops included Des Plaines, Schaumburg, and Tremont, IL. Along the way she welcomed two more children, Christian and Laura.

Barb loved her Milwaukee work life and friends, especially at AMPCO Metal and Wisconsin Bell-Ameritech-AT&T. She enjoyed working in downtown Milwaukee, especially work lunches on Cathedral Square with its history and unique Milwaukee beauty. Barb was a volunter Scout leader, member of the AT&T Pioneers and was generous with her time in other volunteer activities. Barb was preceded in death by her parents Margie and Barney, son Christian , Uncle Richard Safranek and beloved sister-in-law Judy Van Dinter. Barb is survived by children Brian Harbrecht (Dr. Ellen O'Brien) and Laura Reese (John Reese), grandchildren Sarah, Robert, Katie, Maggie and Brendan and by her dear brother, Bernie Van Dinter and cherished niece, Jennifer Van Dinter as well as other nieces and nephews. She will also be missed by son-in-law John and daughter-in-law Ellen, who will miss her guidance and humor.

Barb's life was anchored by her guiding stars, brother Bernie and lifelong friend Barbara Stenke. From driving Bernie's brand new Thunderbird while he took the bus to work, to the two Barbaras driving their respective mothers crazy, Bernie and Barbara were a source of lifelong love and joy for Barb.

Visitation THURSDAY, January 5, 2023 at St. Paul Catholic Church, 1720 E. Norwich St. from 9-11 AM. Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. Entombment at Arlington Park Cemetery to follow.

The family wishes heartfelt thanks to the staff at Aurora St. Luke's Medical Center, particularly the MRICU. The kindness and patience of the medical staff was a much appreciated gift.