Barbara “Bobbie” Lang Black, 90 years old, born Jan. 21, 1932, passed 11/20/2022. Attended school in Oak Harbor, WA.
Married to Jack Lang 1948-1963 and had 3 children together. Even though they divorced, they remained “Best Friends Forever”. Together they built a nationally recognized Rabbitry where they showed and sold rabbits all over the world, receiving many prestigious awards. After achieving great success in their Rabbit business, they switched to the Thoroughbred Horse business.
In 1965, she married William “Bill” Black, Jr. With her husband Bill and her children, they built one of the most premiere Thoroughbred horse farms in the Pacific NW (Wildwood Farm), fulfilling her childhood dream. At the same time, they were very instrumental in the North Whidbey Riding Club, successfully building a professional rodeo in Oak Harbor, The Whidbey Island Stampede.
Barbara was elected and served on the Board of Directors of the Washington Thoroughbred Horse Breeders Assoc. for 18 years, serving on various important industry committees. She was also a charter member of the Washington Stud Managers Assoc. In 1984, she was appointed by WA State Governor, Booth Gardner to the 3-member WA Horse Racing Commission, where she proudly served for 8 years.
On Wildwood Farm, they bred, raised, sold and raced horses for 29 years, including major champions. Not only did she raise some amazing horses, but she helped raise several “Extra Kids” who needed help and guidance. She was very proud that they all grew up to be good and productive adults.
After moving from Oak Harbor to the beautiful Bitterroot Valley in Hamilton, MT in 1994, they became actively involved (as officers) with the Bitterroot Back Country Horsemen organization. During the 20 years they were involved with this club, they ran the Ravalli County Fair each year and enjoyed many horse rides through the countryside.
Besides all her great endeavors, Barbara said her greatest accomplishment was her family. She instilled in her children the importance of love of family, honesty, hard work, pride in always being the best you can be, and helping others. She loved and was proud of all the achievements and accomplishments of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Her legacy will continue.
Hobbies she enjoyed included hunting, cards, bingo, gardening, and baking; along with her great love for her dogs, favored horses and rabbits. She especially treasured her many special friends through the years.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Edson & Esther Pennington, her 1st husband Jack Lang, husband Bill Black, and her son Mike Lang.
She is survived by her son Pat Lang (Lynne), her daughter Debbie Vacca (Raymond), daughter-in-law Debbie Lang, 8 grandkids, 21 great grandkids, and 2 great, great grandkids.
Funeral arrangements-Wallin Stucky Funeral Home, Oak Harbor, WA, Dec. 2nd. Viewing is at noon, service at 1:00 P.M., and graveside/burial services at 2:00 P.M.
