Barbara Motyka

Barbara Motyka 1937 - 2026 

Barbara Motyka, 89, passed away peacefully on July 22 of ALS. Her son and daughter were at her side. Barbara was born in Berlin, Germany, on June 13, 1937. She and her three sisters emigrated to the United States in the late 50s, and she became an American citizen. She obtained undergraduate and master's degrees from Columbia University, with an interest in International Affairs. She was most proud of her time working as an Information Officer with the United Nations, but spent most of her career as a Senior Program Officer at the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). 

Later in life, she started her own website selling silk flowers and she was also a census taker in 2020. She was predeceased by her husband of 44 years, Edmund Motyka. She and Edmund had a wonderful life together in New York City, where they raised two children and also enjoyed spending time in the Catskill mountains. In 2020 she moved to Vermont to be closer to her daughter. Barbara had a keen interest in humanity, current affairs, and travel. She enjoyed photography, especially taking photographs of birds, and discovered a talent for watercolor during her later years. She is survived by her son, Konrad (Carol), and daughter Alexandra (Ray), grandchildren Ian, Brian, Kurt, and Corrin, a niece, and several nephews and grand-nieces/nephews. 

The family is grateful to the staff at the ALS Clinic at UVM and at The Arbors. 

A ceremony of life will take place at a later date. If you would like to contribute in Barbara's honor, please consider Doctors Without Borders in lieu of flowers.