Barbara L. Hartje

Barbara Hartje, age 93, of Storm Lake, Iowa died on September 13, 2022, at her home in rural Storm Lake. Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 18, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in rural Storm Lake. Burial will be in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday, September 17, 2022 from 5-7:00 p.m. at the Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake. The Fratzke & Jensen Funeral Home in Storm Lake is in charge of arrangements. Barbara Lenora (Kern) Hartje was born September 5, 1929 to Edward D. and Gwendolyn E. (Davis) Kern in rural Laurens, Iowa. Growing up, Barbara attended school in Laurens until her family moved to Albert City where she graduated high school. On December 7, 1947 Barbara married Kenneth E. Hartje at Zion Lutheran Church in Storm Lake. The couple was blessed with three children: Suzanne, Patricia, and Robert. Barbara enjoyed farm life, being an active participant in all aspects of the farming operation. She found joy in gardening, and attending to her flower beds. Barbara was fond of eagles and was proud of her eagle collection. Family was the most important part of Barbara’s life. She especially treasured her time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. They could always count on homemade treats from Grandma’s house as she enjoyed baking and had baked goods ready for any visitor who came by. Barbara was active in her community. She became a member of Zion Lutheran Church in 1948 where she served on Altar Guild and various committees. She served as a 4-H leader and was a mentor to many youths. She enjoyed bowling on a league for many years and loved playing golf, proudly hitting a “hole in one” at the age of 72. She was a board member for Ladies Keenage Golf. Barbara was also a member of the Cosmopolitan Club. Barbara is survived by her children: Patricia (Arlen) Ciechanowski of Polk City, Iowa; Robert (Ronda) Hartje of Storm Lake, Iowa; grandchildren: Chad (Nikki) Hartje of Rosemont, Minnesota; Valarie (Ben) Lauzer of Becker, Minnesota; Brenda (Nick) Rassett of Winsted, Minnesota; Erica (Darrin) Fischer of Ames, Iowa; Justin Mack of Grimes, Iowa; Suzanne (Corey) Dripps of Reinbeck, Iowa; Joe (Gayle) Ciechanowski of Alta, Iowa; Alicia (Tyler) Stunes of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Matthew (Megan) Sease of Polk City, Iowa; Paul (Bret) Wedemeyer of Casey, Iowa; 17 great grandchildren; extended family and friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; husband: Kenneth; daughter: Suzanne; son-in-law: Jerry Gast; and grandson: Andy Sease. Barbara was blessed to be able to stay at home, thanks to the loving care of family, St. Croix Hospice and friends, particularly her neighbors: Dan and Karen Waites.

Barbara L. Hartje

September 5, 1929 - September 13, 2022