We can grieve for what we have lost of be thankful for all the time we were given, and through the tears we shall have our memories!
Ella May Barber passed away quietly Fri, Dec 13, 2019 surrounded by family and friends. Ella May was born in South Boardman on Feb 19, 1931 to the late Fred and Ella Martindale.
She married Leo Barber on Mar 8, 1950 at her parents' home during a Michigan snowstorm. They settled in Rapid City, where they raised their family.
Ella May enjoyed a full and busy life as a dedicated wife, mother, and homemaker. She loved dancing, playing cards with friends and crafting. One of her favorite pastimes was checking out garage sales.
Ella May was quiet and shy, but fiercely independent. She was happiest taking care of family and friends. She loved to cook, kept an immaculate house and instilled in her children the value of family. She was a gracious hostess who made you feel at home when visiting, whether it was for a couple hours or days.
Ella is survived by her husband of 69 years, Leo; children, Gay (Bob) Rowell, Sharla (Leon) Leach, and Leo Jay (Dawn) Barber; grandchildren, Beth (Jim) Stricko, Matt (Stacy) Leach, Jen (Rick) Groleau, Jamie Bea (Michael) Gaye, Andrea (Stephen) Brown, and Erica Barber; six great grandchildren; sisters, Deloris Miller and Opal Chilson; and best friend, Gretchen Peck.
Ella May was met by her beloved daughter, Karla Sue; brothers, Jerry and Fred Martindale and Bill Stephenson.
Special thanks and appreciation are given to the staff at Kalkaska Assisted Living, Laura Casey and all of those whom she came to love as family.
She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.
Visitation will be today, Dec 17, from 2 to 4 pm, at Wolfe-O'Neill Funeral Home, 106 S. Cherry St, Kalkaska.
