Barbara Jean Gamble Richter, age 78, a Tucson resident since 1957, died peacefully in her home on July 30, 2003, in the presence of her husband of 55 years, David, and her daughters, Erica and Trudy.

In addition to her husband and daughters, she is survived by her son-in-law, David; grandchildren: Kelsey, Kerry, Kristin, Raul, David and Karli; a great-grandson, Tanner; her brother, Charles; and sister, Joey; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Karol Jo.

Barbara was born June 17, 1925, in Albert Lea, to Jeanette Northam and Paul Gamble. She attended Macalester College in St. Paul and graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Minnesota. On Jan. 2, 1948, she married her college sweetheart, David. After living in Washington, D.C., for several years, the family moved in 1957 to Tucson, Ariz.

Barbara was deeply involved in her daughters’ school activities throughout their academic years, and always kept the family on track. In the late ’70s, she became the owner of a travel agency. She thoroughly enjoyed the voyages she and David took, from many elderhostel adventures and biking in Europe, to traveling in China in the early ’80s, visiting Australia and taking many family trips, including a memorable voyage on the Big Red Boat.

Her family and friends remember her with great love and warmth. She also kept busy throughout her adult life with tennis, golf, biking and walking, and she eagerly looked forward to summers at the family cabin on Sugar Lake and her lake home in Lake City, Minn.

The tragic loss of her youngest daughter in 1977 was softened in part by five grandchildren she adored and rejoiced in as they grew into adulthood. That joy became even more emphatic with the birth of her great-grandson, Tanner, this year, on her 55th wedding anniversary. Her cancer diagnosis only affirmed her zest for life, and the past year has been one of ferocious courage, fortitude and adventure.

Her family thanks the skilled caregivers at Handmaker, Casa de la Luz and Care Giver Connection for the sensitivity and attention which made a difficult time much less painful and more calm. The family also thanks her friends, our friends &045; their support and love have been gifts which will always be cherished.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will take place at the Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N. Alvernon, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Oct. 12, 2003. The private interment will take place in Minnesota.

The family requests that there be no flowers, but that contributions be made to Casa de la Luz, 6812 N. Oracle Rd, 85704, and Handmaker Respite Care, 2221 N. Rosemont Blvd., 85712.

Arrangements by Evergreen Mortuary & Cemetery.