Barbara "Barb" Anne Van Riper

Barbara "Barb" Anne Van Riper, age 85, of Mogadore, Ohio died on Saturday September 5th, 2026 at Akron General Medical Center. She was surrounded by loved ones. She was born on June 5th, 1941 in Akron, Ohio, the daughter of Kelly and Anna Marie {Sargent} Reed. Other than her parents, Barb was preceded in death by her husband Louis Van Riper and her brother David Reed. Barb and Louie were married on October 10th, 1964.

Barb provided unconditional love and acceptance and was the "glue" that kept the family connected. She brought nothing but light to anyone and everyone around her. Survivors include her sons, Christopher (Tracy), Eric (Kathy), Scott, and Brian Van Riper. Seven grandchildren, Nicole (Eric) Green, Joshua Van Riper, Landon Van Riper, Jacob Van Riper, Tyler Van Riper, Hayden Van Riper and Zackary Van Riper. Two great-grandchildren, Norah Green and Evelyn Green. Several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Barb was a 1959 graduate of Garfield High School. She was elected "The Sister of Grand Nature" for the Rainbow Girls- Eastern Star. She worked at General Tire, Tupperware and Wayside Furniture (22 years). She lived a long life of putting others before herself and lending a helping hand. This includes being a big supporter of all things Mogadore, a community she lived in for 57 years. She served as the treasurer for Mogadore Youth Football for 31 years (1975-2006). She also spent countless hours being a room mother for each of her kids and also was the president of the P.T.A. She won the O.H. Somers Award.

Barb loved Elvis, all kinds of music, the Hallmark Channel, the Mogadore Wildcats, any kind of chicken, her iPad and the remote control. Most of all she loved her family and friends - each and every one.

We can't believe it's time to say goodbye. Rest in Peace, You Deserve It, Mom. Barb was an eagle who flew home to God after and amazingly well done job down here. They don't make them like her anymore.

Family and friends are welcome to visit at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N Canton Rd. Akron, OH 44305 on Wednesday, September 16th, Louis' birthday, from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., when the funeral service will begin with Pastor Craig Fullerton officiating. To leave a special message for Barb's family, please visit the guest book below.