Barbara Goossen Capelle, 89, New Canaan Native Barbara Goossen Capelle, a lifelong resident of New Canaan, passed away April 6, 2017 at Norwalk Hospital. She was born on August 30. 1927 in Stamford, CT, the only child of the late Henry and Matilda Goossen. She attended Center School, Saxe Junior High and graduated from New Canaan High School in 1945. She continued her education at the University of Connecticut, where she graduated with a degree in English. While attending UConn, she met her future husband, Robert Capelle. They were married shortly after they graduated in 1951 and moved to New York City to concentrate on their respective careers. While they were living in NYC, Barbara gave birth to the couple’s first child. Wanting their children to have the advantage of living in the country, Barbara and Bob moved to New Canaan. Barbara returned to work and school after her children were older. Her career was mainly with non-profit organizations, including Save the Children and The Norwalk Hospital. She also earned her M.A in Communications from Fairfield University in 1980. Barbara was proud of being a lifelong New Canaanite, and UConn Alumni. She was a long time active member the United Methodist Church in New Canaan and The American Association of University Women, (Norwalk/Westport Branch). Barbara was a fierce fan of the New York Mets and UConn Huskies Basketball (both women and men). She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles and was a fan of many genres of music, including Frank Sinatra, early pioneers of rock, such as Chuck Berry as well as classical and opera. She also was an animal lover, especially cats. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She was ahead of others of her generation, pursuing a career and higher education all while raising a family. In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by her husband Robert. She is survived by her children; daughters Stacey Mathis and husband John, Barbara Capelle-Bennette and fiancé Wayne Bishop, and sons, Robert Capelle Jr, and Christopher Capelle and wife Nancy. She is also survived by grandchildren Christine McKibbon, Mark Mathis and wife Megan, Alexis Capelle and Ashley Capelle. Services will be private. Donations may be made in Barbara’s memory to: American Association of University Women, 1310 L Street NW, Suite 1000, Washington, DC 20050 or Danbury Animal Welfare Society, 147 Grassy Plain Street, Bethel, CT 06801.