Barbara Sites Bair May 16, 1926 - October 2, 2017.  Born Barbara Joann Sites to Emanuel and Rama Sites, Barb passed away peacefully in the presence of her family. Barb was born in Marion, Indiana and raised in Rochester, NY.  Her family was completed 11 years later with the addition of her younger brother Charles. She attended college at Casinova and earned a B.S. degree in Economics from the University of Rochester. In 1951 she met her future husband, William Bair on a blind date. After a seven month courtship, they were married in a simple ceremony at her parents’ home. After Bill’s graduation from the U. of R., the couple decided to accept a short term 2 year position out west in Washington. Bill then began a 39 year career at the Hanford Site. They never regretted staying in the Tri-Cities. They began their family immediately having three boys, Bill, Mike, and Andy. When they moved out west, they promised themselves and their families that they would make sure that their kids would know their extended family. Every year they made sure the family vacation included two weeks “back east” to see the family. These sacrifices resulted in lasting bonds that still exist. 

While Bill pursued his career at General Electric and then Battelle, Barb took on the role of family Chief Financial Officer, and primary enforcer over the three boys. She was a strong role model, taught many life skills to her kids, was a compassionate confidant, and brought a practical approach to problem solving (and we had a few). Despite being outnumbered by all her boys, Barb was a real trooper. Whether it was pistol shooting or archery with Bill or camping, hiking, or fishing, she was always an avid participant. She made sure her kids were exposed to as many opportunities as possible and supported them in everything they did (well, most things). 

Her husband Bill hosted numerous visiting scientists from around the world.  In an era where there was a dearth of fine restaurants in the Tri-Cities, Barb was frequently called upon to provide in home entertainment for the visitors and became adept at throwing dinner parties often on short notice.  She was an active participant in the social scene of the Hanford wives, an avid Bridge player, member of Questers, as well as a book club.  She loved to read and was well known at the Richland library as she would typically read five books per week.  She was talented in Cross Stitch, Petite Point, Needlepoint, Crochet, and Knitting, creating fine works of art, blankets, afghans, and sweaters for her grandchildren that her family will long cherish.

She and Bill traveled the world, visiting more than 80 countries including many countries in Europe, China, the Soviet Union, India, Myanmar, the Galapagos and Easter Island to name a few.  But their favorite by far was east Africa which they visited many times including a trip to Kenya in 1998 with all of their children and grandchildren.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, brother Charles, and husband of 63 years Bill. She is survived by her three sons Bill (Marie, Heather, and Rochelle), Las Vegas, Mike (Elaine, Braden, and Tommy), Port Townsend, and Andy, San Francisco.

She will be remembered by family and friends as a strong, loving woman who thought of others and always stood by her convictions.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful people of the Chaplaincy Hospice, Riverton Assisted Living home, and Homecare Solutions who provided such compassionate care. 

In accordance with her wishes her ashes will be commingled with Bill’s and scattered in a private ceremony at their Spirit Lake, ID property they so cherished.