Barbara "Barb" Messick (Kruchten)

January 28, 1954 – February 13, 2025

Barbara "Barb" Messick, 71, of Burlington, Wisconsin, passed away suddenly on February 13, 2025, in Summit, Wisconsin. Born on January 28, 1954, in San Diego, California, Barb was the eldest of 11 siblings, a role that shaped her caring and compassionate nature.

Barb was a gifted writer, a passionate reader, and a talented crafter who found joy in creating through crochet and other crafts. She had an incredible ability to make people feel heard, valued, and truly cared for. She surrounded herself with wonderful friends and was always eager to experience new things, whether through books, conversations, or travel. England held a special place in her heart, and she was fortunate to explore its rich culture firsthand.

Above all, Barb loved her family deeply. She was a devoted mother to Lindsay Webster (Ryan) and Erica Messick (Neal Koch). Her greatest joy was being a grandmother to Natalie (11), Eleanor (10), Rhiannon (3), and Kami (10). Summers were spent poolside with them, creating memories filled with laughter and love.

One of her favorite places was The Coffee House in Burlington, where she could often be found working on her novel, surrounded by the comforting hum of conversation and the scent of fresh coffee. She cherished the connections she made there and everywhere she went.

Barb was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry; her parents, John and Carmen Kruchten; brothers John, Mike, Don, Bob, and Tom Kruchten; mother- and father-in-law John and Anna Messick; and brother-in-law John Messick. She is survived by her daughters, son-in-law, grandchildren; sister Kathy; brothers Steve, Ken, Bill, and Ted Kruchten; brother-in-law Bob Messick; sister-in-law Cecelia Messick; and numerous nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

A celebration of Barb’s life will be held at a later date to allow the family time to grieve. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Girls Write Now in her honor.

Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the critical care team at Aurora Medical Center-Summit for their compassionate support and dedication during her time there.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the stories she told, the warmth she shared, and the love she gave so freely.

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