Bend, OR – A Life Well Lived: Celebrating Barbara L. McKeever Peterson (1946–2025)
The world grew a little brighter when Barbara L. McKeever Peterson entered it, and she joyfully completed her wonderful earthly journey on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the magnificent age of 78. A devoted wife, cherished mother, enthusiastic grandmother, and lifelong servant of her community, Barbara approached every day with a vibrant spirit and a Packers-green glow.
Born on November 9, 1946, in the heart of Green Bay, Wisconsin, Barbara was the delighted daughter of the late Dr. Henry and Charlotte McKeever. She carried the unstoppable Mid-western loyalty of her roots, radiating an infectious love for the Green Bay Packers that she shared with anyone within earshot! She left her college days with a degree from the University of Wisconsin and an abundance of lifelong friendships, ready to embrace the world.
In 1971, Barbara brought her energy to Easthampton, Massachusetts, where she immediately put down deep, lasting roots. For many successful years, she was a dedicated realtor for the Taylor Agency, where her genuine warmth and quick wit helped countless families not just buy houses, but find their happy homes. Beyond her bustling professional life, Barbara’s commitment shone through her deep faith as a deeply valued Elder of the Easthampton Congregational Church, where her wisdom and kindness lit up the spiritual life of the parish. A fierce advocate for the arts, she served many years as a member of the Massachusetts Arts Lottery Council and as the board chair for the Easthampton Cultural Council.
Barbara’s greatest triumph, however, was her family. She is survived by her loving husband and constant adventure partner, Herb Peterson. Together, they shared a wonderful life full of laughter and support. She was a remarkable and supportive mother to her children, Tim Peterson and Teafly Peterson, who celebrate the memories of her guidance, laughter, and unwavering love. Her vibrant spirit shines on in her two adored grandsons, Finn and Milo, who will forever remember their “Nana” for her pantry of treats and funny stories.
In 2015, Barbara and Herb packed up their Easthampton memories and headed west to Bend, Oregon, to fully immerse themselves in the fun of family life. These last years were a joyful whirlwind of attendance at soccer and lacrosse games, cheering at school plays, and sharing warm Sunday dinners with their children and grand-children.
Amidst all the bustle of her life, Barbara always reserved sacred time for her artistic pursuits. Whether she was sitting quietly in church or cheering loudly at a soccer game, she was rarely without a sketchbook and a trusty pencil. Her joy was found in capturing the beauty of the world around her, from the vibrant greens of a Green Bay summer to the rugged landscapes of Bend. She filled countless pages with playful doodles, thoughtful drawings, and splashes of watercolor, creating a personal gallery of her happy life. This simple, lifelong passion for creativity was another beautiful way Barbara connected with and celebrated the world.
Barbara also had an immense love for animals, sharing her home with her beloved canine companions. These furry members of the family were sources of pure happiness and comfort, always by her side, offering tail wags and unconditional love that perfectly matched her own gentle spirit.
Barbara will be celebrated for her quick wit, her dedication to service, and the vibrant, full-color way she lived her life. She leaves behind a radiant legacy of kindness, professionalism, and community stewardship that will be a lasting source of cheer to all who knew her.
Barbara will be laid to rest at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, Oregon, a peaceful final stop on her joyful journey.
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