Barbara Mallen Obituary

Barbara Jean Mallen
12/30/1933 - 09/22/2024
Barbara Jean Burke Mallen, 90, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2024. She is survived by her beloved husband of 69 years, John Mallen; and their children, James Mallen, Brian Mallen (Lucia), Dana Mallen Hewitt, and John Mallen Jr. (Teresa). Barbara was predeceased by her daughter, Cheryl Mallen Hansen. She also leaves behind six cherished grandchildren, Michael Hewitt Jr. (Ciara), John B. Hewitt (Lauren), Madeline Hewitt, Cole Hansen, Bridget Hansen, and Peter Hansen; as well as three great-grandchildren, Hayes, Henley, and Maeve Hewitt. Barbara will also be fondly remembered by her 35 nieces and nephews.
Born and raised in the Sunset District of San Francisco, Barbara was the youngest of five children in a large Catholic family of German and Irish descent. She attended St. Anne's Grammar School and Presentation High School. One of her fondest memories was visiting her grandparents, the Ebners, who lived in one of the iconic Painted Ladies on Steiner Street.
In 1955, Barbara married John Mallen, and together they settled in Saratoga, California, where they raised their five children. This was well before Silicon Valley became what it is today. Despite the demands of an active household, Barbara always made time for her passions-tennis, golf, hiking, and even running a marathon with John in the early 1970s. Family life revolved around Brookside Swim and Tennis Club, where Barbara often played competitive doubles before picking up her kids and preparing dinner.
Once their children were grown, Barbara and John spent many joyful years at their cabin in Incline Village, Lake Tahoe. It was here that Barbara loved hosting family and friends, creating lasting memories both summer and winter. Her love for nature was central to her life. Whether she was skiing at Diamond Peak, canoeing on Lake Tahoe, paddling the Truckee River, or hiking the trails of Squaw Valley, Barbara thrived in the great outdoors.
A seasoned traveler, Barbara explored six continents, but she held a particular fondness for the United Kingdom-especially the West Bromwich Albion soccer club. One of her favorite adventures was trekking through New Zealand's breathtaking mountains, moving from hut to hut.
Barbara long advocated for social justice issues, including women's rights, and engaged passionately in political discussions. Barbara's straightforward manner, resilience, and zest for life were well known. Her love for the San Francisco 49ers, the Giants, and the city of San Francisco will continue to be celebrated by her family for generations.
Barbara spent her final wonderful years with John at Smith Ranch in San Rafael, where she was surrounded by friends, family, and the loving help of dedicated caregivers. Even in her final chapter, Barbara's strength, and joyful spirit touched everyone around her. Her legacy of love, resilience, and adventure will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.