Closter, NJ

Barbara Jean Bystrom, 88, on September 30, 2021, was born in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, NY in 1933. Barbara excelled while at Manual Training HS and entered the RN Nursing program at Kings County Hospital. She subsequently turned to her love of singing, supported by her choir director at UMC Brooklyn, to audition and was asked to join the Metropolitan Opera as a member of the chorus and prior to retirement, the chorus manager. She traveled the world and loved every moment of her life with the Opera. Barbara moved her family to Closter, New Jersey in the 70's. Barbara is predeceased by parents: Robert Marks and Martha Hutchinson, brother; Robert Marks, ex-husband Karl Bystrom. Survived by her loving children; Kenneth, Ronnie and wife Kelly, and Carol Bystrom. Dear grandmother of Avery, Kenneth Jr., and Elijah Bystrom. Sister of Stan Marks and wife Moonyeen and her brother Robert's wife Joy.

Barbara spent her retirement years loving and cherishing her time with her grandchildren, Avery, Kenny Jr., and Elijah.

Barbara was an active member of the United Methodist Church in Brooklyn, NY, and Demarest, NJ. A celebration of Barbara's life will be held on March 20, 2022, her birthday and the first day of Spring. Please check back here for time and location. Donations may be made in Barbara's name to Metropolitan Opera or UMC Demarest, NJ.