Barbara Ofelia Spangler, 65, of Los Banos, California, passed away on April 21, 2026, at home with her family. She was born on December 4, 1960, to Marcelino Ortiz Sr. and Luisa Ramirez Ortiz. Barbara grew up in Salinas, Santa Cruz, and Watsonville.
In 1979, she married Wayne Maurice Spangler Jr., and together they raised their two children, Daniel and Tina. Barbara loved her grandchildren: Lily Frutos, Jacob Bernal, Michael Spangler, and Grace Spangler.
Barbara spent much of her life taking care of others. She worked different jobs over the years, including caring for kids as a nanny. She helped raise Trevone Moore and Mark Barcellos from the time they were babies into their older childhood years, and they held a very special place in her life.
She is survived by her siblings Marcelino Ortiz Jr., Anndrea Simons, Terrie Lynn Lindsey, and Richard Ortiz, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Luisa Ortiz; her sisters, Carmen VanPelt and Theresa Holland; and her brother, Juan Mario Ortiz.
A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14, 2026 at Pacheco Park from 10am – 2pm. In place of flowers, donations can be made to the Merced County Food Bank, where Barbara donated countless hours and was also a recipient during difficult times.
Barbara was always someone who gave and helped others. Please remember her and honor her by making a donation in her name.
