Barbara Krall

Barbara Ann Krall, 78 of Atlantic, Iowa, passed away at her home on Wednesday, July 14, 2010.

Barbara Ann Burns was born December 29, 1931, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Kenneth Theron and Emogene (Sullivan) Burns. She attended various schools in the Cleveland-Euclid area during the Great Depression and WWII. She married Charles Frank Krall March 8, 1951, at Euclid, Ohio. They lived in Willowick, Ohio, for 27 years. She and Charles moved to Atlantic in 1980 when Charles transferred from Cleveland while working for Gould (Mahle). Charles died March 12, 1981. Barb loved Atlantic, continued to live there, and treasured the 30 years since.

Some of Barbara's jobs, other than mother and homemaker, included working in various factories and retail stores. She also helped with several community organizations.

Her free time was spent reading, quilting, making crafts, and doing puzzles. She was an avid reader and always desired to learn new things. Since childhood, she had a passion for cooking and loved experimenting with new recipes and sharing them with friends, family, and publications.

Barb loved being an active part of her grandchildren's daily lives. Together they created lifelong memories by playing games, school, tea party, dress-up, watching classic movies, and countless hours of being "busy bees" around the town. This inspired the family "bee theme," which has lasted throughout the years.

Barb lived life consistently with optimism and a sense of humor, and always knew how to make the best of any situation. Her honesty and intelligence were traits admired by those who knew her.

Survivors include her sons, Keith C. Krall (Jackie) of Cedar Rapids, IA and Kevin R. Krall (Geraldine) of Watertown, SD; a daughter, Amy L. Mathisen (James) of Atlantic, IA; grandchildren, Kelly Krall Baumeister and Brian Krall, both of Seattle, WA, Emma Mathisen of Maryville, MO and Erin Mathisen of Atlantic, IA; a sister, Donna Long of Rancho Cucamonga, CA. and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Barbara in death were her parents, Kenneth and Emogene Burns; her husband, Charles; and a sister, Margaret Schrieb.

The funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, July 17, 2010, at Hockenberry Family Care in Atlantic, Iowa, with visitation from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service. There will be a private family committal service.