Barbara Jean (Leckliter) Lanski

Barbara was born on May 6, 1947 to Robert and Grace (Wade) Leckliter. A lifelong Dunkirk resident, Barbara was a member of Dunkirk High School’s Class of 1965. After graduation, Barbara worked as a homemaker and was proud of the most important job she ever held; raising her children. She was very active in their school activities, and served as a volunteer in any capacity that she could for organizations in which her kids were involved. Barbara was an active advocate for the New York State School for the Blind in Batavia NY, and also served as a volunteer for many years with both the American Cancer Society and the American Lung Association.

After working for free for all of those years, Barbara decided to enter the workforce, and worked for Marriott Corporation before landing a job with the Dunkirk School System, first as an in-school suspension monitor and then as a teacher’s aide with the Special Education Department. She loved her job as an aide and performed the daily duties with great enthusiasm. After her retirement in 2019, she took delight in the opportunities she had to see her former students after they had graduated.

Reading was her primary hobby, and over time she donated hundreds of books to local literary organizations. Gardening was another of her hobbies and she worked diligently on her yard daily under the mantra “there’s always work to be done.” She enjoyed her neighborhood chats, and liked playing cards and shopping as well. She always looked forward to visits from family. She was an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills and whatever teams her children played for.

Barbara is survived by two sons, John Lanski of Dunkirk NY and Michael Lanski of Jacksonville FL; and three grandchildren, Troy Lanski of Fredonia NY, Jack Lanski of Dunkirk NY and Kierstyn Lanski of Jacksonville FL.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents Robert and Grace Leckliter; a daughter Karen Elizabeth Lanski; and her cherished aunt Mary F. Wade.

At Barbara’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral services. Private arrangements are being made through McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care for their compassion and care for Barbara in her last days.