Barbara Berenson (Schiffgen) Creegan

Born Barbara Louise Schiffgen on March 14, 1931 in Portland, Oregon. Barbara passed away peacefully with her husband at her side at the Washington Gardens Memory Care Center. During her early years Barbara, her sister, and Mother lived in downtown Portland.

Barbara graduated from Girls Poly High School. She married young and had one child, a son, Martin Muhler. Later Barbara married Dr. Bernard Berenson and even though they divorced years later she remained close friends with him until his passing. In 1988 she married John Creegan and remained with him until her death.

Barbara faced many adversities in her life and with each one she became a stronger and more independent person. Known for her loud gregarious laughter, she was never shy to voice her opinion, and she was a shrewd business woman. Underneath that strong exterior was a woman with a warm and generous heart. Barbara had many friends and if you were friends with Barbara you were friends for life. She would do just about anything to help her friends.

Over the years Barbara was involved in many business and charitable organizations. One of her favorites was supporting the Columbia River Gorge, a place she loved to visit. She served as President of the Portland Woman’s Forum, which was founded to preserve the beauty of the Columbia River Gorge.

Throughout her life Barbara had several jobs, yet her time as a real estate agent was by far her best years. She relished in the challenge of finding the perfect home for her clients and worked feverishly to sell a home making sure her clients got a fair deal. Her time as a real estate agent afforded her many repeat and even generations of clients.

Barbara loved to travel and especially enjoyed cruises. During her lifetime Barbara traveled extensively throughout Europe, the United States, and Mexico. After she retired, Barbara and John loved spending time at their time share in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

Barbara had many loves. She loved her husband John, her many friends, and of course, her little fur babies Sophy and Katie Ann. Barbara spoiled her little dogs and took them with her whenever she could. Barbara loved her jewelry and her many gold bracelets became a signature piece of her daily wardrobe. Barbara loved to entertain and was known for throwing wonderful parties. Barbara truly enjoyed trying new restaurants always in search of the next great meal and cocktail. Yet, Barbara’s secret pleasure was a trip through the Taco Bell drive thru! If you knew her well then you have probably experienced a visit to Taco Bell with her!

Barbara was blessed with a long colorful, and very full life. During her time here she touched many along the way and she will be greatly missed by all. Barbara is survived by her loving husband, John Creegan and her son Martin Muhler. She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Katheryne Castro, and her ex-husband Dr. Bernard Berenson.

A mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, February 9, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Clare’s Catholic Church, 8535 SW 19th Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97219. Interment will follow immediately after at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to her favorite charity, Oregon Humane Society at 1067 NE Columbia Blvd. Portland, OR  97211.

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