After moving to San Antonio in 1942, she attended school in Harlandale ISD, following her graduation in 1950, she worked for Southwestern Bell. Shortly after her marriage in the 1960's to Bart Bartkoviak, also of Southwestern Bell, the family moved to Pipe Creek, TX.

Barbara is preceded in death by her youngest son Terry Wheelis, her husband D.A 'Bart' Bartkoviak, her son Roger Wheelis and her brother Robert Reichel.

After her son Roger's passing in 2003 she began volunteer work for Silver Sage, a commitment which lasted 19 years. She said, 'Volunteering saved my life.' She recommended volunteer work for anyone needing a reason to get up in the morning, who needed a purpose in their life.

Barbara is survived by her sister Doris Buchwald and nephews David Reichel and Mike Buchwald.

Memorials may be given to Silver Sage or a charity of your choosing.