It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Walter B. Barbe, editor in chief of Highlights for Children from 1971-1989. Personally selected to join Highlights by founders Dr. Garry Cleveland Myers and Caroline Clark Myers, who he later succeeded, Dr. Barbe also took on the role of editor in chief of Zaner-Bloser, where he managed a published series of handwriting textbooks that changed the way handwriting was taught in schools across the country.
An active and prominent resident of Honesdale, Pennsylvania, he supported several causes within the community, including promoting the historic Dorflinger glass factory, which was the subject of his book, The Glass Industry in Wayne County Pennsylvania. He also became chairman of the executive committee of the Dorflinger-Suydam Wildlife Sanctuary.
A renowned and lifelong educator, Dr. Barbe believed that ‘Children learn best when their attention is captured and they are entertained, when they are so totally absorbed in what interests them that they forget they are ‘learning’ or being taught’– a philosophy that is instilled in Highlights’ Fun with a Purpose mission. We are honored to be part of his legacy and will continue to advocate for children everywhere in his memory.