Barbara R. Carlson

Ipswich, MA - Barbara R. Carlson was born on July 16th, 1926 in Berkeley, California. She passed away peacefully on August 9th, 2024 in Newburyport, Massachusetts with family at her side. 

From an early age it was apparent that Barbara possessed a fierce intelligence. She carried that intelligence with her throughout her life, dedicating herself to education, literary pursuits and music. Barbara taught school in the Newton Public school system for her entire career, devoting herself to the betterment of her students. She was also an avid hiker and traveler, spending summers camping in the high Sierras and exploring remote places in the world. Barbara was a fantastic cook and hostess and loved entertaining family & friends. She also cared deeply for the downtrodden, serving Tuesday night suppers at the Church of the Advent in Boston for thirty years.

Barbara had two daughters during her first marriage to Wayne B. Carlson of Concord, California, Melanie Jane and Sue Virginia. Much later in life, at the age of 82, Barbara found great joy in her second marriage to Norman J. Viehmann of Ipswich, MA. She embraced his large family and they in turn embraced her.

Barbara will always be remembered for her loving heart, her life of service and her cheerful laugh.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Norman J. Viehmann. She is survived by her brother, Dr. Maynard B. Rotermund and his wife, Olga Jane, her children: Melanie Goodpasture, Sue Carlson, Beth, Martha & Doug Viehmann and nine grandchildren.