Barbara Schenkelberg Obituary

Barbara J. Schenkelberg, 83, passed away peacefully at home on November 19, 2022. Visitation will be held from 4-6pm, Saturday, December 10, 2022 at Iles Westover Chapel. A memorial service will follow beginning at 6pm.

Barbara was born on February 6, 1939 in Spencer, Iowa, one of ten children, to Leonard and Nellie (Eckard) Borchard. She graduated from Spencer High School. Following high school, she moved to California then returned to Iowa to raise her children, Kim and Perry. She returned to California for a few years, then Colorado then following her mid-western roots, returned to Iowa to be with her friends, family and the Ashby Crew.

Barbara was a beloved mother, grandmother and sister. Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren, family and friends. She had an undying sense of humor. She was always generous with her laughter and giving spirit. Her grandchildren lovingly called her a modern-day Snow White with all the animals in her backyard. She will be remembered as one of the best cooks ever, an avid fishing enthusiast, a sewing extraordinaire, a breast cancer survivor and that she was always busy with a new project.

Over the last several years, her incredible strength, determination and resilience were never more evident in light of the health struggles she faced.

She is survived by her daughter, Kim (Ken) Lawson; daughter-in-law, Margie Schenkelberg; grandchildren, Brianna (Brian) Gonzalez, Kayla Schenkelberg, Blake Lawson and Connor Lawson; her siblings, Raechel (Dick) Trimble and Randy (Suzy) Borchard, as well as many nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Nellie Borchard; son, Perry Schenkelberg; brothers, Lenny and Danny Borchard; sisters, Janis Barton, Patty Schomaker, Linda Schomaker, Susan Hansen and Jane Weber.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the National Audubon Society. The service will be livestreamed and a link will appear on Barbara’s obituary page, just prior to the service, at www.IlesCares.com, where you may find additional information and leave online condolences.

Barbara will be remembered for her generous heart of gold and never hesitating to help people.

Arrangements by Iles Westover Chapel, 6337 Hickman Road, Des Moines, Iowa 50322.

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