Barbara A. Rau, 69, of Turners Falls, peacefully passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield following a brief illness.  Born on April 23, 1955, in Montague City, she was the daughter of the late Frederick P. and Dorothy E. (Gallant) Rau.
Barbara graduated from Turners Falls High School, class of 1973, where she was a twirler.  While in high school, she also enjoyed competing with a local Drum and Bugle Corps.  Her love for good food and cooking led to a rewarding career in food service, where she held various positions, including Cook, Food Service Supervisor, and Manager. She began working at Franklin Nursing Home while still in high school, and over the years, worked at Northfield Mount Hermon, Alberti's Restaurant, Richards Corner, Poet's Seat Nursing Home, Church Street Home, and The Arbors at Greenfield, where she retired in April of 2023.
When she wasn't cooking, Barbara enjoyed playing cards, watching relatives' sporting events/dance performances, listening to country music, sewing, working on puzzles, camping and hiking (in her younger years), traveling, and relaxing at the beach with a cold beer in hand.  She also spent much of her free time babysitting for her family and working at Sammy K's Driving Range for her sister. As a self-taught cake decorator, Barbara made many creative cakes for family and friends' celebrations, including birthdays, weddings, and showers.
The foundation of Barbara's life was built upon her father's strong work ethic and her mother's loving grace. Quiet, selfless, and kind, she was known for her free spirit, generosity, and willingness to help others. She will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
Barbara is survived by her sister, Linda (Sam) Kaeppel of Greenfield; brothers, Frederick Rau, Jr. of Turners Falls and Kevin (Lisa) Rau of Erving; nieces and nephews, Bruce Cowles, Susan Kaeppel, Deb Kaeppel, Jennifer (James) Bondy, Sam (Tricia) Kaeppel, Mary (Ed) Morley, Nate Rau, Kelsey Rau, Mike Rau, Dan (Papcelie) Rau, Scott (Emily) Rau; great nieces and nephews, Allison (Scott Barlow) Kaeppel, Presley Bondy, Declan and Kendall Kaeppel, EJ and Quin Morley, Adam and Morgan Rau; great-great niece and nephew, Alexys King, Noah Barlow; aunt, Eleanor Gallant; uncle, Richard Gallant and many cousins.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, February 9th, from 1:00-3:00 PM at Kostanski Funeral Home in Greenfield.  A memorial service will take place on Monday, February 10th, at 11:00am at the First United Methodist Church at 25 Church St. in Greenfield.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital 501 St. Jude Pl, Memphis, TN, 38105 or the American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 21741.
For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.