Barbara Huffman

Barbara Ann Huffman (nee Christie)

April 15, 1938 — February 9, 2026

MADISON - Barbara Huffman passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026. Barb was born to Gerald and Ada (Perry) Christie in Ft. Wayne, IN on April 15, 1938. As a child, Barb loved spending time at her grandma’s house with her two cousins Sandy and Judy. Those times were her happiest childhood memories.

Barb was a serious student, graduating at the top of her class at North Side High School. She met the love of her life, Jack Huffman, in 9th grade algebra in 1952. When they both scored 100% on their test, their teacher suggested Barb sit on Jack’s lap since the reward for the highest score was sitting in the front desk. Barb loved retelling that story until the very end. The two began dating soon after that algebra test and married joyously on August 30, 1958.

After briefly attending Indiana University, Barb began her career as a paralegal for property attorneys and served at law firms and title companies in Indiana, Michigan and Wisconsin. While raising their two children, she and Jack were very active in the United Methodist Church and Southwestern Michigan’s cross country ski club. They always looked forward to their monthly get togethers with friends in their pinochle club in Michigan. In 1985, Barb and Jack moved to Madison, WI when Jack started working for the University of Wisconsin.

After retiring in Madison, Barb and Jack purchased a second home in Estero, FL in 1993 and wintered there for many years.

Barb was preceded in death by her husband Jack, her parents, brother Gerry, sister Carol Cretsinger and brother-in-law Bill Cretsinger. She is survived by her son Glenn (Jennifer) Huffman and daughter Lisa (Gonzalo) Sanchez along with grandchildren Ian (Katie), Chris (Grace), and Eric (Jamie) Huffman, Gabriela (Ben) and Rory (Natalie) Sanchez, and great-granddaughter Betty Huffman. She will be missed dearly by all.

The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers at Brookdale Stonefield Senior Living in Middleton, WI for all the close attention they gave her in her final months. We would also like to thank the Agrace hospice staff for the care they gave Barb and the advice and support in our time of need.

A private service will be planned for a later date.