Barbara Ann (Zampano) Funaro, 73, of East Haven, died at the Connecticut Hospice on Feb. 16 after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her children and family. Barbara, who was also known as "Bobbie" by her closest friends and family, was born in New Haven on July 21, daughter of the late Louis and Helen (Wilchinski) Zampano, formerly of East Haven.  She was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt, and loyal friend.

Barbara graduated from East Haven High School in 1957. She especially enjoyed time with her family, trips to the casino, and Sunday lunch with TM. Barbara was down to earth and had a realistic way of looking at life. She was somebody you could depend upon for unconditional love, humor, and solid advice.

Barbara will be remembered for her sarcastic sense of humor, her style, her French toast, making a bad situation into a good laugh, giving detailed directions, and most especially for her love and commitment to her grandchildren.

Barbara's family thanks the staff at the Connecticut Hospice of Branford for the care and compassion they showed Barbara at the end of her life. 

Barbara is survived by her three loving sons, Frank Funaro II and his wife Diane (Bruder) Funaro of East Haven, Michael Funaro and his wife Karen (Winblad) Funaro, also of East Haven, and Brian Funaro and his fiancée Melissa VanTine of Branford.  She was the proud grandmother of Jessica, Frank III, Matthew, and Haylee Funaro, all of East Haven. She is also survived by her brother, Joseph Zampano of East Haven.

Barbara’s family will receive friends from 9 a.m. until the time of her funeral service at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 21, at the Clancy Funeral Home, 43 Kirkham Ave., East Haven, followed by burial in East Lawn Cemetery. Donations may be made in her memory to the East Haven Food Pantry, 39 Park Place, East Haven CT 06512, or to the Connecticut Hospice, 100 Double Beach Rd., Branford CT 06405. Please visit www.clancyfuneralhome.com for memorial tributes.