Barbara Ellen Michels

Barbara Ellen Michels

     Barbara Ellen Michels of Eau Claire passed away peacefully at Care Partners Country Terrace Oct. 16 at the age of 75.

     Barbara was born Feb. 17, 1950, in Black River Falls to Francis and Rose (Lastofka) Michels. She graduated from Lincoln High School, Alma Center, in 1968. From there, Barbara attended the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh and received her BA in social work.

     Barbara moved to Milwaukee in 1972. For 37 years, she worked for Weld Riley, S.C. She continued to work for them as they expanded and opened an office in Eau Claire, where she became office manager before retiring. While office manager, Barbara was very active in PSI (Professional Secretaries International). She acted as a mentor to many high school students in that field.

     Barbara was also involved at St. Olaf Catholic Church – reading at masses, selling script and participating in church activities. After retiring, Barbara loved playing cards, golfing, taking trips with friends across the U.S. and spending time with family at the cabin.

     Barbara is survived by sisters JoAnn (Dave) Schmidt of New Richmond and Carol (Steve) Dorn of Prescott; along with nieces Jennifer Leis and Megan (Michael) Stary and nephews Ryan (Lynzi) Leis and Tim Leis; and great-nephews Deklan Stary and William Leis; and great-niece Lakyn Stary.

     She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Kathleen Leis and brother-in-law William Leis.

     The family would like to thank the wonderful people at Care Partners Country Terrace and Interim Healthcare for everything they did for Barb – we appreciate it so much.

     A service will be held at Smith Funeral Chapel Oct. 24, at 11 a.m., with visitation 1 hour prior.