Barbara Perlstein Obituary

I am stunned by the loss of Barb. I had looked forward to seeing her again at our HS reunion. I enjoyed many hours with her in our mutual participation in the music program. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of her family.

Sincere sympathies to the family of an outstanding pianist and a sweet lady.



Bob Freud (Grammar and High School Classmate)

I am shocked and horrified to learn about this. I only just found out from Terry Jacobs (Wilner)and when I couldn't reach Barb sent her a letter. It has been far too long since I saw or talked to Barbara, even still, it feels like yesterday.



I practically grew up with Barb as she was the pianist for every choir I ever sang in from 5th or 6th grade through HS. I was a co-accompanyst with her in seventh grade, a task that only heighten my overwhelming respect for her musical ability (and it hastened my retirement from that role!)



She even went the extra mile for me when I was trying out to compete in a voice competition in HS by learning quickly and playing my uncle's goofy professional arrangement of Man From LaMancha in the key of B flat!



I also worked with her at Kirland and Ellis in the summers while we were in college. Every day we'd ride the bus down to work together and talk about a wide range of things.



Regrettably I lost touch with her after that but would occasionally run into her in later years in the suburbs.



This loss feels so bad it is like I have lost a very close relative.



God's speed Barbara. We miss you. May god give comfort to you and your family.



As words cannot describe this loss, I can only leave you all with a prayer that has given me comfort in times of great tragedy -- perhaps you already know it. It is a Native American prayer of peace and nature sung at Native American funerals to ease the emotional burden families suffer in times like this. It is called, "I Am Not Here."





Do not stand by my grave and weep

I am not here. I do not sleep.



I am a thousand winds that blow

I am the diamonds’ glint on snow

I am the sunlight on ripen grain

I am the gentle autumn rain.



When you awaken in the morning’s hush I am the swift uplifting rush

Of quiet birds in circle flight

I am the soft stars that shine at night.



Do not stand at my grave and cry.

I am not there.

I did not die.

My sympathy, JEFF

Dear Michael and the Topel Family,



I was a college roommate of Barb's at University of Michigan. Though I haven't seen her since those days, I will always remember her smile and wonderful sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with you; I hope she will stay as alive in your memory as she has been in mine all these years.



Kind regards,

Karen

Dear Michael:

I knew Barbara only a short time, having started at BBDO 3 years ago Saturday. While we were hardly close, she touched my life and my heart. I will miss her radiant smile, her positive attitude and her generous and kind words. My prayers are with you and all of your families at this time. She is at peace now, joyful and free. God Bless.

Dear Michael,



We were so sorry to hear of Barbara's death. I know this has been a long and very difficult illness. Our prayers, thoughts and wishes are with you. God will watch over her. May your memories be a source of strength.

MICHEAL,

MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY . I WON'T EVER FORGET BARBARA ,SIMPLY BECAUSE OF HER GREAT SMILE , SHE GAVE ME EVERY MORNING AND AND TRULY THANK GOD FOR THE PLEASURE AND THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE MEET SUCH A OUTSTANDING WOMAN OF GREAT STRENGTHS AND POSITIVE ATTITUDE.

STAY PRAYERFUL AND GOD SHALL DIRECT YOU .

Michael,

Our sincere condolences on your loss. May G-d give you strength in your hour of need.

Marv Cutler and the Spertus Accounting Staff: Yolanda Coleman, Yehoshua Israel, Yehuda Jacobi, Bonnie Sohn, Andrea Stigger

Dear Michael -



God has seen fit to wrap Barbara in his arms and take her to be with him. She's now free from all this worldly pain, but your memories of her are forever. I'm glad that I was able to meet the woman that made your life complete. Don't grieve, God has set her free.

Your will always be in my prayers. I don't consider you just a board member, you're a friend.



Love, Blanche

The world has lost a brave, talented and vivacious woman. I met Barbara when we were both young Chicago singles, and was privileged to spend many hours enjoying her friendship and companionship. Though we have not been in touch in years, her passing leaves me deeply saddened.

I am very sorry to hear about Barbara. My sincerest condolences to you and your family. It was a true pleasure to be involved in Barb's care. She was a very special and courageous person. My thoughts and prayers are with you.