Pemba Lee Barboff

Pemba Lea Barboff, beloved mother, partner, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend, passed
peacefully surrounded by love on April 9, 2026.

Born to Barbara Lea Barboff and Hüseyin “Mike” Barboff, Pemba was part of a richly woven family that
included her brother, Michael Hüseyin, and her sisters, Suzanne Nur Kraus and Lorrie Ann Barboff. Her
life was shaped by deep connections, complex journeys, and an enduring capacity to love.

She was also deeply loved by her bonus mother, Rebecca Barboff (Hüseyin), whose presence in her
life became one of steady support, respect, and understanding over many years.

Pemba was the devoted mother of Adam Barboff (Sheng), her heart walking in the world, whom she
brought into life under extraordinary circumstances and loved with unwavering devotion.

She shared more than twenty years with her life partner, Todd Barwick, building a life together through
both challenges and deep love. Together, they lovingly cared for their six cats, whom they considered
their children.

Pemba had a remarkable gift for nurturing. She cared not only for her family, but for the overlooked and
the vulnerable. In honor of her brother Michael, who struggled with homelessness, she dedicated
herself to helping those living on the streets—bringing food, clothing, and compassion to those in need.

She extended this same devotion to the animals in her care and to the natural world around her,
feeding birds, tending to creatures, and ensuring that nothing entrusted to her went unloved.

She was known for her love of cooking, preparing meals especially for her father, her son, and her life
partner—an expression of love that brought people together around her table.

She also spent many years working as a food product demonstrator, where her natural ability to
engage with people and share her love of food shone through.

Christmas was her favorite holiday, and together she and Todd created something magical each year.
With his extraordinary eye for beauty, Todd transformed their home into a space of warmth and
wonder, like a storefront window, where the season came alive in a way that reflected their shared
spirit.

Pemba’s life was not simple. She faced profound challenges with a fierce and determined spirit.
Through it all, she continued to give, to love, and to show up in the lives of others.

She is preceded in death by her mother, her father, and her brother Michael. It brings deep peace to
her family that Michael will now be laid to rest, and that he and Pemba will finally rest together.
She is survived by her son Adam Barboff (Sheng), her life partner Todd Barwick, her sisters Suzanne
Nur Kraus (Robert) and Lorrie Ann Barboff, her bonus mother Rebecca Barboff (Hüseyin), and many
extended family members and friends who loved her deeply.

Pemba’s name means “pink,” and like that color, she leaves behind a presence that is gentle, enduring,
and unforgettable.

Our pink butterfly is free now.

Visitation to honor Pemba and all mothers will be held from 2:00 to 3:30 PM on Sunday, May 10, at
Heritage Funeral Home, 16880 W. National Ave. A funeral service celebrating the life of Pemba Lea Barboff will follow at 3:30 PM in the funeral home chapel, with Pastor Tom Griffey of the Milwaukee Rescue Mission officiating. Light refreshments will be served during the visitation in the lounge located in the Heritage Funeral Home. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Continuing her legacy of compassion for those experiencing homelessness, those interested in
memorializing Pemba Lea Barboff are encouraged to make donations to the Street Angels of
Milwaukee, 125 N. 120th Street, Wauwatosa, WI 53226. The organization asks donors to specify “in
memory of” and her name on the check.