Barbara Unruh

Barbara Joyce Unruh was born on January 14, 1941, in Rush County, Kansas to Paul and Beada (Horst) Bott. She passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Sand Springs, Oklahoma at the age of 85 years, 4 months and 24 days.

Barbara grew up on the family farm and learned a strong work ethic early in life. She graduated from La Crosse High School with the class of 1959 and went on to graduate nursing school on November 15, 1962. She continued her nursing career before retiring in her early 70’s. Barbara was a woman who persevered through many trials. She lost both of her husbands to tragic accidents but continued on with strength and confidence.

Barbara was happiest when surrounded by those she loved. In her younger years she loved and cared for all her siblings. She was also a devoted mother to her two sons. When she became a grandmother, she cherished the time she spent with each of the grandchildren and formed memories that will be forever treasured in their hearts.

Barbara loved gardening, baking, family gatherings and her cat, Charlie. Throughout her life, she was loved by so many in her community. She brought joy wherever she went and will be remembered for her radiant smile and cheerful laugh.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Beada Bott, two husbands, Daryl Bruce Folkerts and Phil Leon Unruh, one son, Jonathan Phil Unruh, 2 sisters: Shirley Ochs and Caroleen “Lou” Herrman as well as one brother, Sidney Bott.

Barbara is survived by her eldest son, Bradley Shane Unruh and wife Angie of Bixby, Oklahoma, siblings: Kay Hardwick, Garry, Doug and Greg Bott, grandchildren: Emily Unruh of Kansas City, Missouri, Kristina Unruh of Bixby, Oklahoma, Kisa, Kelsi and Katie Unruh of Missouri, bonus grandchildren: Kaitlyn (Saxton Judd) Horowitz and Kendra (Colby Sartin) Horowitz, great- granddaughter, Henley Dawn Judd, brothers and sisters-in-law: Loretta (Jim) Hull, Carol Berry, Ross Unruh, Glenda (Ken) Vogel, Denton Unruh, Adele (Denny) Koehn, Louise Unruh, Martha (Dennis) Bell, Susan (Orville) Williams, Roger (Donna) Unruh, and Dan (Brenda) Unruh as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM Saturday, June 13, 2026 at the La Crosse United Methodist Church. Burial will follow in the La Crosse City Cemetery.

Memories may be shared on Barbara’s tribute page at www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com

Arrangements in care of Keithley Funeral Homes-La Crosse Chapel located at 611 Peace Street in La Crosse.