BARBARA A. VAN NIEL (nee Zurilla) age 87. Beloved wife of the late Richard; loving mother of Melanie Mauk, Greg, and Dale (Caitlin); dear grandmother of Brad (Christine), Christopher, Ella, Luke, Nate, Jack, Katherine, Sammy, and Rose; great grandmother of A.J. and Lila; daughter of the late Ann (nee Hovanec) and Andrew Zurilla; sister of Ronald Zurilla (Linda) and the late Elaine Woff and Edward Zurilla (Florene); aunt and great aunt of many.

Barb lived her life with tenacity, creativity, and unwavering love for her family. She was a loving wife to Richard for 55 years. Barb worked for many years at Key Bank to help support the family and give their children opportunities to pursue their individual talents and abilities. Barb delighted in her grandchildren and always had something new and interesting waiting for them at her house. She had great joy in seeing them thrive. She was a loyal friend, a follower of God, and pillar of strength in her family.

Barb's sweet nature and kindness towards everyone around her continued to be a blessing to her family and to those who provided care for her the last few years of her life. Her presence will be greatly missed by those who loved her.

Passed away January 28, 2026. Funeral Mass Tuesday February 3, Blessed Trinity Catholic Church (14040 Puritas Ave, Cleveland) at 11:00 AM. Interment Holy Cross Cemetery. Friends may call at CHAMBERS FUNERAL HOME of CLEVELAND 4420 Rocky River Drive at Puritas TUESDAY 9:00-10:30 A.M.