In Loving Memory of Barbara L. "Punkin" Arponen

July 8, 2025

South Carver, Massachusetts

Barbara L. Arponen, age 88, resident of South Carver for 67  years, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Barbara was a devoted wife, sister,  mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was filled with love, quiet strength, and deep compassion. She was married to her beloved husband Richard Arponen, for 60 years, until his passing in 2018. Together, they built a life rooted in family, laughter and cherished memories. Barbara enjoyed serving lunches to children at the Governor John Carver School for many years.

She is survived by her sons, Richard Arponen and Carl Arponen and his wife Janice. She was predeceased by her son, Michael “Babe” Arponen.

Barbara was a proud grandmother to Amanda Cloutier and her husband Dan, Elizabeth Arponen, and Marissa Arponen. She was also the loving great-grandmother of Carlie, Maddox, Maeve, and Paxton, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

She is also survived by her siblings: Michael Guidaboni, Richard Arruda and his wife Lynne, Billy Arruda and his wife Susan, and Stephanie Joubert and her husband Jim. She was predeceased by her sister Patricia Chandler and brother Peter Guidaboni.

Barbara will be remembered for her gentle heart, resilient spirit, and deep devotion to her family. She especially loved meeting up with her friends for a cup of coffee and a good chat— those simple moments of connection brought her great happiness.

Memorial visiting hours will be held for Barbara on July 24, 2025  at the Shepherd Funeral Home in Carver at 1:00 pm followed by Readings at 2:00 pm and burial to immediately follow at Union Cemetery.

She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.