January 13, 1950 – June 10, 2025
Barbara Ardith Skellenger, 75, of Clear Lake, IA, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake, IA.
In accordance with Barb’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and no services will be held at this time.
Barbara Ardith Buchanan was born on January 13, 1950, in Mason City, IA, to Gordon and Ardith (Kinseth) Buchanan. She grew up in the area and graduated from Ventura High School in 1968.
Barb’s life was forever changed on June 8, 1970, when she met Steve Skellenger at the Band Fest in Mason City. After spending just a few hours together, Steve asked her to marry him. Without hesitation, Barb said yes. Their immediate connection blossomed into a love that would last 54 beautiful years. They were married on August 8, 1970, and together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and deep devotion.
After living in Mason City for a time, Barb and Steve moved to California, where they spent 33 years before returning to Iowa and settling in Clear Lake.
Barb truly cherished the time she spent with Steve. In 2004-2005, she worked side by side with him in his hobby shop in Mason City, an experience she enjoyed deeply. Whether tending to her garden, preparing meals in the kitchen, or assisting in the workshop, Barb was happiest when she was with Steve, sharing in their simple joys and mutual passions.
A woman of many talents, Barb had a special love for gardening. She took great pride in growing vegetables for canning and carefully arranging colorful flowers around her home. Her homemade pizza sauce and marinara were beloved by all who tasted them, and her culinary talents will be fondly remembered.
Barb will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love for her family, and her devotion to those who mattered most. Above all, she will be remembered for the deep bond she shared with Steve—one that spanned more than five decades. Together, they created a life rich in memories, grounded in love, and full of simple pleasures.
Barb is survived by her loving husband, Steve Skellenger; her siblings Pam, Jan, and Karen; her brother-in-laws Dave, Dan (Darci), and Robert (Kathy); her sister-in-laws Sarah, Cherri (Jim), and Jana; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Ardith Buchanan; her dear sister and best friend, Vickie; and her brother, Al.
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