Barbara Lee Heinisch March 22, 1936 -- January 22, 2026. Barbara Lee Heinisch passed peacefully January 22, 2026 with family at her side in Kearney, MO.

Barbara was born in Baltimore, MD to Charles and Barbara Hund. Upon high school graduation she worked for General Electric, Delta Airlines and Standard Oil in Houston, TX.

It was in Houston where she would meet her one true love and husband of 61 years, Richard Heinisch who was a pilot in the US Air Force. Together they would live in numerous cities throughout the US as a result of air base transfers. During this period they would welcome three sons (Doug, Greg and David) to their family. Upon discharge from the Air Force Richard accepted a pilot position with TWA, and in 1967 they would purchase their forever home in Kansas City.

Barbara spent her years raising her three boys while also enjoying many activities with her family and friends. Lake time in NE Oklahoma was among her favorites, as well as gatherings at home with family and friends playing cards and board games. She was also an avid bowler for many years.

Her most cherished times were those spent with family and her beloved grandchildren. Upon Richard’s retirement they became active in Doberman Rescue of Kansas City and would regularly travel throughout Missouri and Kansas to transport rescued Dobermans to shelters and foster homes. Through the years they would own three German Shepherds and four Dobermans. They shared a deep love for their fur babies.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Richard, her parents Charles and Barbara, step-father Robert Weisman and brothers Bobby Weisman and Norman Hund.

She is survived by her sons Doug (Carol), Greg (Angela), David (April), grandchildren Lauren Brewer (Dustin), Jake Heinisch (Marissa), Geoff Holton (Jenny), Andy Holton (Christy), Zacc Watt(Arin), Jessie Perkins and Thaddeus Freeman as well as thirteen great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 10-11am, Saturday, February 7, 2026, at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, 1401 NE 42nd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64116. Mass of Christian Burial to Celebrate Barbara will be held at 11:00am immediately following the visitation. Interment will be at a later date in the Leavenworth National Cemetery, Leavenworth, KS

Barbara will be dearly missed by all who knew her but the family takes comfort in knowing she has been reunited with all who have gone before her. In lieu of flowers the family would suggest donations to The Humane Society or animal shelter/rescue of your choice.