Barbara Haug, 68, of Independence, passed away surrounded by her family on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Arcadia, Wisconsin. Barb was born on May 22, 1958, in Whitehall, Wisconsin to Monica Mish. In July of 2023, Barb was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Even through her diagnosis, she remained incredibly strong and defied so many odds along the way. She was so brave and always wore a smile, even on the bad days. She always reminded those around her that God has a plan for everyone and to take life one day at a time.
Barb was employed at Gundersen Tri-County in Whitehall, Wisconsin, for over 20 years. She truly loved working with the residents there and made many great friendships along the way.
Barb had a love for life and enjoyed spending time with the people she cared about most. She loved playing Polish Poker, 500 Rummy, word games, and putting together puzzles. Barb was always up for an adventure, whether it was camping, going out to eat, garage sales, gambling, or enjoying the warm weather swimming at the beach.
She especially cherished time with her family, whether they were out doing something together or simply sitting and talking. Barb also enjoyed going for rides, looking for wildlife, and had a special love for lilacs and butterflies. She always took pride in having her nails beautifully done and always perfectly painted.
Above all else, Barb will be remembered as the best Mom, Nana, and Great-Nana, whose love, laughter, and presence meant the world to her family and friends.
She is survived by her daughters, Melissa (Ben) Hanson, Courtney (Kurt) Haug-Erdman, and Gabriella (Justin) Haug; grandchildren, Shiloh (Avery) Haug-Erdman, Emilee (Aaron) Crebo, Raven (Ryan) Haug-Erdman, Berkley Haug-Erdman, LilyAna Hanson, and William and Violet Gilbertson; great-grandchildren; Ella, Nova, and Harlowe Erdman, and Melania and Mila Crebo; siblings, Terri (Bob) Altergott, Louie Mish, Romelle Adank (special friend, Pete), Adrian Mish, and Sandy (Bryan) Slaby; sisters-in-law, Angie, Janet, Pauline, and Ruby Mish; Sondra (Dale) Lyngen; brother-in-law, Paul (Holly) Haug. She is also survived by her special friend, Russell Niedzielko, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by the father of her children, David Haug; her mother, Monica (Kampa) Mish; her father, Alex Reck; brothers and sister, Gene, Bernard, David, John, and Ernie Mish, and Delores Austin; brothers-in-law, Gaylord Adank and Howard Austin; sisters-in-law, Shirley, Phyllis, and Joy Mish, and Sarah Sosalla; nephews, Christopher Mish and Keith Mish; great-nephew, Creed Nerison; and niece, Donna Mae Mish.
The family would like to thank all the healthcare providers who supported Barbie throughout her journey.
Family and friends are welcome for visitation from 3 p.m. – 7 p.m. followed by a prayer on Friday, June 5, 2026 at Wozney-Killian Funeral Home.
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