Barbara Joanne Grill

Barbara Joanne Grill (Thorson) passed away peacefully on August 27th at Ebeid Hospice Residence. Barb beautified this world with grace and was valiant when diagnosed 8 years ago with Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer. Throughout, she continued to care deeply for her family and friends, enjoyed the serenity of nature, and sustained strength from her daily walks at Wildwood Preserve Metropark. Barb was born on February 27th, 1946 to Donald and Bernice Thorson. She attended DeVilbiss High School where lifelong friendships developed with many of her classmates, along with the love her life of her life, Jim. Upon graduating from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Education, she began a teaching career that spanned 28 years with the Toledo Public School System. Barb's greatest accomplishment as an educator was her skill in helping "at risk" youth. Because Barb's approach to teaching mirrored her own set of values, she was able to achieve remarkable success in preparing her pupils for their future. Her personal life was full. She adored her husband, children and grandchildren, as well her pets and theirs! Barb loved Northern Michigan, and always looked forward to many happy summer trips and connecting with friends from other places. Barb felt a great responsibility to acknowledge friends, family and acquaintances by sending greeting cards containing genuine, personal notes of love. Barb's family would like to extend special thanks to the wonderful friends who have been supportive in countless acts of kindness, including Gina Garwood, Michele Thrasher, Nancy Turman, Judy Johnson, Linda Grimm, Tina Moffat, Henry and Sue Merce, Tom and Mary Alice Shirk, Val and Jean Glinka, along with many, many others. Much appreciation also to Megan Flagg of Sincera Palliative Care and to Dr. Josh and the entire staff of nurses, social workers, aides and volunteers of ProMedica Ebeid Hospice Residence. Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Don and Bernice Thorson; her father-in-law, Elmer Grill; and her mother-in-law, Virginia Grill. Barb is survived by her loving family: husband, James L. Grill; son, Eric (Margery); daughter, Jennifer; grandchildren, Cooper, Sydney and Harrison; and sister, Donise Lent. Friends are invited to visit from 3-8 p.m., on Monday, in the Ansberg-West Funeral Home, 3000 Sylvania Avenue, (between Secor and Douglas Roads), where funeral services will be held on Tuesday, at 10 a.m. Private interment will follow. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution the Ovarian Cancer Connection of Toledo, ProMedica Ebeid Hospice, or Friends of the Library-Toledo Lucas County Public Library. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.ansberg-west.com

Barbara Joanne Grill

February 27, 1946 - August 27, 2016