November 20, 1935 - February 16, 2024
Barbara A. LoPresti of Philadelphia passed away on Friday the 16th of February 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife to Russell A. LoPresti (predeceased) for 49 years. Barbara is survived by her children Laura L. Davis (William Kelly), Valerie J. Deeks (Joseph Rechichi) and Russell W. LoPresti (Candice Apperson - spouse) along with her grandchildren Charles R. Davis, Brian M. Davis, Courtney R. Deeks and William A. LoPresti. Barbara is also survived by her sister Helen J. Baghdassarian and predeceased by her sister Joan M. Bendis.
Born Barbara Ann Bendis in Indiana, Pennsylvania to the late William V. and Mary A. (Wislocki) Bendis. Many fond memories of her youth in this coal mining town were central to her life values. She attended Elders Ridge High School and enjoyed piano playing, dancing, singing in the choir, ice skating and theatre.
Barbara came to Philadelphia in the mid 1950s and worked for Household Finance. This is where she met the love of her life Russell A. LoPresti. The two were a wonderful compliment to each other – both with strong character, personalities and an affinity for their family, who were the central point of her life. While her children were young she worked as a volunteer for Saint Matthew’s School. She then worked for the Federal Government for the 1980 Census Bureau and then as a secretary for the U.S. Department of the Navy for many years, retiring in 1996 to spend more time with her adored grandchildren and enjoy life.
Barbara was always extroverted and had a natural charisma that engaged many family, friends and extended relatives. Her light-hearted, whimsical and fun nature is hallmark of all the phases of her life with diverse friends and interests throughout. She had a beautiful light around her when she walked into the room, a smile for everyone, an ear to listen to your troubles and a voice that was memorable for singing and recanting amazing stories. This beauty extended from the inside out – with the unique gift of recognizing people for who they were - non-judgmental, pure of heart and simply in the moment.
Friends and family are invited to her viewing and visitation on Friday evening, 23 February, 2024 from 6-8 pm at John F. Fluehr & Sons on 3301 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19149. Words of remembrance begin at 10 am Saturday 24 February, 2024 followed by her requiem mass at Saint Matthew Church, 3000 Cottman Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19149.
Interment will follow at Forest Hills Cemetery, 101 Byberry Road, Huntington Valley, PA.
