Heaven has gained another angel. On Wednesday, May 18, 2022, Barbara Ann Kraus, loving wife and mother, passed away at the age of 90.

Barbara Ann Wisler was born on February 17, 1932 in LaPorte County, IN to Roose A. and Olive M. (Balsbaugh) Wisler. On January 25, 1964, Barbara married the love of her life, George F. Kraus.

Barbara and George were in love years before they met in person. Barbara lived in Indiana, while George was a soldier from Brooklyn, NY, stationed overseas. She read an article in Roller Derby magazine about servicemen overseas who would love a letter from home. Barbara picked a name from the list and wrote a letter to George. This started a pen pal relationship which lasted over 10 years. Even after George returned to the United States, they continued to write to each other. One day, Barbara wrote George a letter saying that she would not be able to write to him anymore, because she was engaged to be married to someone else, and it wouldn’t be proper for them to continue to be pen pals. George asked Barbara to please not get married until after they had a chance to meet in person. He made the trip from Brooklyn, NY to South Bend, IN, where they finally met each other in person for the first time. And the rest is history.

Barbara was preceded in death by her loving husband of 38 years, George F. Kraus, her parents, Roose and Olive Wisler, and two brothers, Jim and Thomas Wisler. She is survived by her children, Bill Kraus (Valerie), George Kraus, and Patti Barrow (Curtis).

Barb will be missed by many friends and family. She touched so many lives, and her legacy lives on in those who knew and loved her. Those who knew Barbara, know that she faced many obstacles in her life. She faced those obstacles with dignity and grace, and with amazing strength and a strong faith. She woke up each morning with a cup of tea, a sense of humor, and a positive attitude.

To honor Barb’s wishes, there will be no funeral service. Please celebrate her memory in your own ways, and remember to spread kindness whenever possible.

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