Born on January 12, 1928, in Arcadia, Iowa, to Stella and John Schroeder, Barbara's life was a tapestry of love, devotion, and vibrant spirit. Barbara's heart found its partner in Emil Lee Wiegand, whom she met while working as a telegraph operator for the Rock Island Railroad in Logan, New Mexico. They married in Arcadia on the first day of Spring, March 20,1947. They began their life together in Roswell, New Mexico, where Lee transitioned to civilian life after serving in the Army Air Corps during WWII. After a brief stint in Helena, Montana, where their firstborn child arrived, they moved to Amarillo, Texas, where they raised their nine children. After the whirlwind of raising the children, Barbara returned to college to study nursing, extending her caring and nurturing role as a registered nurse in Amarillo and later in Sarasota, Florida. Upon retirement, Barbara and Lee relocated to Cedar Park, TX, in 1992 to be closer to family where they joined St. Thomas More Catholic Church. Lee passed away in 1997 in Cedar Park.
A devout Catholic, Barbara cherished the moments of grace and solace her faith provided. Her kitchen was a haven of warmth and delicious aromas, where she delighted in cooking and sharing meals with family and friends. Traveling, gardening, and savoring a fine glass of wine were among her joys. Still, nothing compared to the laughter and love of family gatherings, which were her greatest treasures.
Barbara's legacy endures in the hearts of her children and their spouses: Michael Lee and Barbara, of Marble Falls, TX, Margaret Lee Kuker (Allan deceased) of Denison, IA, Jennifer of Cedar Park, TX, Jonathan and Ann of Austin, TX, Victoria and Richard Lister of Marietta, GA, Rosemarie and David Hale (both deceased), Christopher and Bonnie of Fort Worth TX, Helen and Michael Sweeney of Houston, TX, and Gordon and Tami of Hudson, WI. Her 18 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren carry on her spirit and strength. She is also survived by two younger brothers, Laurence and Tom Schroeder of Vail, IA.
As we gather to honor Barbara's life, we remember her as a beacon of love and a gentle force of nature.
In lieu of flowers, we ask you to remember Barbara with toast or a donation to Mobile Loaves and Fishes at St. Thomas More.
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