Summary
Barb was born on July 10, 1951. Barb was the eldest of 3 children of Bryce Hugh Bennett and Elizabeth Post Bennett. She spent her early years in Michigan, and in high school she found a home in Indianapolis, spending summertime in Whitehall, Michigan at The Cottage. Barb graduated from North Central High School and then pursued further education to teach others, starting with preschool teaching, and then many years teaching first grade in her penguin room within Franklin Township at Bunker Hill Elementary. She earned a master’s degree from Butler University, and helped to teach other teachers. In her spare time, she never stopped moving, except to read, which she did almost as much as she walked. Sometimes, she would read while she walked.
Barb loved a good McDonald’s Happy Meal and Bud Light at cocktail hour.
Barb has two children from her marriage to Jeff Quinto, Sr., Jeff Quinto (Stephanie) and Mary Birtwhistle (Tim). She loved to spend time with her grandchildren (who call her Grammy) Michael Birtwhistle, Nick Quinto, Katie Birtwhistle, and Lauren Quinto.
Grammy loved to host pool parties at her Derstan house with many friends and family. She offered unlimited fruit snacks and Little Bites to her grandkids. Family dinners included something grilled and a courtesy vegetable.
Barb married Frank Catanzarite on 7/7/07, and they enjoyed 17 great years together. Barb always had a love of friends and tennis, and with Frank, they were able to enjoy both during their time together in Indianapolis, then Florida, and then once again in Indy.
Barb and her tennis friends always had a fun time, and founded the social group 25-45, which was a great way for people to socialize and meet their peers. It was so successful that it became 25-45+. She was always a selfless facilitator, and tried to make sure that everyone felt special.
Barb peacefully passed at 2:30pm after a six-year battle with Alzheimer's Disease. Barb will be missed by many.
Arrangements entrusted to Simple Cremation Indianapolis. 6904 South East Street, Suite E, Indianapolis, IN 46227. (317) 361-4749. www.simplecremationindianapolis.com
11 Replies to “Barbara Joyce (Bennett, Quinto, Horine) Catanzarite”
Your beautiful wife will always be remembered with a smile on her face and love in her heart .
With thoughts, love & prayers.
We have enjoyed knowing Barb and her children since 1970. As we would all agree that her most infectious trait was her smile and laugh. We will certainly miss her. – Dave and Judy Hiatt
I meant Barb many years ago and will always remember her smile and that laugh. One of the most distinctive laughs I’ve ever heard, but yet one of the friendliest. I enjoyed attending a few of her pool parties. She will be surely missed.
Thinking of Barb and all of our tennis fun. Bless her.
What a great caring friend Barb was. Cherished memories of pool parties, walking club, tennis, and conversation. I will miss you, Barb, but know that you have gone home and are at peace. Laura
To Barb’s family:
I am so sorry to hear of Barb’s passing. I worked in Penguinville for 5 years and I loved helping in her class everyday. She was a great teacher and friend. Let your memories of her sustain you forever. My love and prayers are with you all.
Jeff, I’m so sorry to hear about your Mother. Bill and I are thinking about you and your family. Take care.
Barb was such an inspiration to all. Always active and smiling. She was a joy to be around and will be missed. So sorry she had to die.
Barb was a special kind of friend. She always remembered birthdays with a card sent via the US post office! Regardless of life’s challenges, she graced our days with smiles. I will most remember our championship tennis team and celebrating years later with Grammy and Me days at Rivi where it all started. Her greatest legacy is family: Tim, Mary and beautiful grandchildren. We will so miss our Barb but know she is at peace.
We have known Barb since 1992. She was always a very friendly neighbor and was unselfishly devoted to improving our community. We miss her very much.
Mike and Kim Healy
My most sincere condolences to the Family and Friends. I was a proud Penguin under then-Ms. Horine’s 1st grade class around 1994-95-ish. She encouraged me to read, read, read and was truly the first person to instill confidence in my academic abilities. Around a decade ago, I returned home from leave with the Navy and happened to cross paths with Mrs. Catanzarite at the local Meijer and we were able to reminisce for a few moments. It was such a great feeling to catch up. While I’ve had numerous teachers and professors throughout my years, few have made the impact that she did on my education and life. Forever a mighty, mighty Penguin!