Barbara Mary (Schirra) Baran

Barbara Mary Baran, of Venice, FL, formerly of Crown Point, IN, and Library, PA, passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 77. She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Stephen Baran; son, Christopher (Marguerite) Baran; grandsons, Michael and Jonah Baran; and sister-in-law, Kathy Schirra, of Finleyville, PA. She was the only daughter of the late Louis and Clara Schirra; and the sister of the late Mark Schirra of Library, PA.

Barbara attended St. Joan of Arc Elementary School, South Park High School, and Carlow University. She began her career teaching at the St. Regis Elementary School in Oakland before later working in the Treasurer’s Office at Duquesne University. After Christopher’s birth, she devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mom for most of his first eighteen years.

When Barbara returned to the workforce, she took on a role as a regional support person for an airport lighting company, where she built lasting relationships with her customers. She also supported Steve in his career, which often meant moving across the country multiple times. Over their 54 years of marriage, Barb and Steve relocated eight times - though their career military friends would joke that they were “rookies.” Moving brought challenges, but it also offered great rewards: lifelong friendships, new experiences, and the opportunity to explore diverse cultures and "unexpected gems."

One of the family’s most cherished chapters was their time in Crown Point, Indiana, which Barbara often called “the best time of my life.” In 1981, Barb and Steve, with childhood dreams of living on a farm, found their "crown jewel" - a 5-acre property with a 100-year-old house, two big barns, and outbuildings. It was there they became part of the local farming community. Barb loved knowing everyone in town and feeling welcomed wherever she went, and Steve loved the sense of community and safety for his family while he was on the road for work. It is in Crown Point that Christopher will forever call home. 

Barbara was an active and social person. She was a 4-H leader, a member of a horseback riding club, and enjoyed participating in 4-H projects, trail riding, and eventually showing horses in the American Quarter Horse Association. She also had a passion for rodeo, especially Professional Bull Riding (PBR). 

Search the word “fangirl,” and you might just find a picture of Barb Baran. Her love for her idols - cowboys, rock stars, and actors - began in her teenage years and stayed with her throughout her life. She had a collection of photos with her favorite performers. In recent years, her fandom took her to a fan conference called Conageddon, where she became an iconic presence. It was here that she struck up a friendship of sorts with actor, Zach McGowan, whom she admired for his roles in Black Sails, The 100, and Shameless. Barbara often spoke of his kindness, stating that he was "a genuinely nice man that loves and respects his fans.”

A devoted admirer of Native American culture, Barbara's deep connection to this community was reflected in her beliefs, readings, and travels. In 2018, she and Steve traveled to the Western States visiting National Parks and historical sites, and most importantly, the St. Joseph’s Indian School for their Powwow. The sounds of the Powwow - the thumping of tom-toms, the jingle dancers, and the Lakota singers - left an indelible mark on her soul. This trip was as much a pilgrimage as a vacation, and Barbara became an avid and long-time supporter of the St. Joseph's Indian School charity. Her spirit will live on as she returns to Mother Earth.

A private Memorial Service will be announced shortly; arrangements have been entrusted to the SAVOLSKIS-WASIK-GLENN FUNERAL HOME, INC., 3501 Main Street, Munhall, PA 15120. The service will be streamed on Facebook Live so that Barb’s family and friends from around the world may participate.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contrabutions in Barbara’s name may be made to the St. Joseph's Indian School, PO Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57326 (stjo.org).

Condolences may be left at www.swgfuneralhome.com.

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