Barbara J. "Barb" Ahrens

Barbara Ahrens, of Appleton, age 71, passed away on Saturday, June 16, 2012 at her home. She was born on August 26, 1940, in Appleton, the daughter of the late Clarence and Agnes (Van Elzen) Knabenbauer. Barb was a loyal employee at Colony Oaks Care Center for 42 years, and showed great compassion towards all the residents. She enjoyed special time with family, especially her children, grandchildren and her dog, Annie. Barb looked forward to playing poker with the card club ladies and their annual trip to Kelly Lake, going to the casino and she enjoyed rooting for her beloved Chicago Cubs. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother.
Barb is survived by her children: Mark (Amy) Ahrens, Dawn (late Duane) Ahrens-Trams, and Tim (Linda) Ahrens; grandchildren: Ashley and Kayla Ahrens; Sam and Zach Ahrens; great grandson: Parker; brother: Gary (Julie) Knabenbauer; aunt: Jean Schmit and special goddaughter: Tracy Baeten, and other nieces and nephews. She is also survived by the father of her children, Jack Ahrens, and good friends, Rosie and Tom Ahrens. Barb was preceded in death by her sister, Judy (John) Burzynski, and her uncle, Earl Schmit.
The funeral service for Barbara will be held at 6:00 pm on Tuesday, June 19, 2012 at NEW HOPE LUTHERAN CHURCH, 1850 American Drive in Neenah. Rev. Jeff Prewitt will be officiating. Entombment will take place at Highland Memorial Park in Appleton. A visitation will be held at the church on Tuesday from 3:00 pm until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in her name.
Sincere thanks to Dr. Jeffrey Whiteside, Dr. Joyce Bauer, and Dr. Avi Bar- Lev for your care and compassion. Special thanks to her condo friends, Laurie and Dave, Barb, Jenny, and Laney and her special friend, Cheryl Salzman, for being a blessing in her life.
Mom, you will be in our hearts forever. Love u bunches.

Wichmann Funeral Home
Tri-County Chapel
3212 S. Oneida Street
Appleton, WI 54915
(920)831-9905