Barb was born May 18, 1932 in Hampton, Iowa the daughter of A. W. (Arnie) and Leona (Brandt) Rathman. Barb grew up the only child of Arnie and Leona and developed a lifelong relationship with a multitude of cousins. Barb graduated from Hampton High School and soon met the love of her life. She married John Menke on July 9, 1950 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hampton, Iowa. Barb and John developed a lasting relationship for 66 years of family, work and retirement until John's death on March 14, 2017.
Barb is survived by her sons, Dr. Steve (Nancy) Menke of Ottumwa and Bart Menke of Ames, grandchildren Michael (Samantha) Menke of Sioux City, Christopher (Erica) Menke of San Diego, CA, Bryson (Megan) Menke of Temecula, CA, greatgrandchildren Victoria, Eloise, Haley, Max and Mia.
Barb was preceded in death by her husband John, and her parents, Arnie and Leona Rathman. Barb and John moved to the Ames area in 1958 and provided a great home for the boys on the farm south of Ames. Barb's work ethic, determination, respect for others, valued friendships and spiritual belief made her a contributor to the lives of many. Barb was an employee at Ames Seed Farm early in her life and later enjoyed many years of service at Hach in Ames.
Family and grandchildren were very important to Barb, she enjoyed watching the development of her family and was very appreciative and proud of those who "cared "for her. Calls, picture, visits and holidays were a special part of her life.
Barb and John enjoyed life in their north Ames neighborhood very much and valued friendships with all the neighbors. She was determined to live in her own home until recent weeks. Barb was an avid Cyclone fan at the game, on television or on the radio. If there were sports of any kind on television she knew the schedule.
Living at home for Barb was made a reality by strong support from her family, neighbors, church and staff of "At Home Care ".
Barb died Sunday, June 3, at Northridge Village, in Ames, with her family by her side. There will be a 1:30 p.m. Friday, June 8, 2018 graveside service, open to the public at Ankeny Memorial Garden, 4208 North Ankeny Blvd., Ankeny, Iowa
Memorials may be directed to Bethesda Lutheran Church, "Caring Ministries" 1517 Northwestern, Ames, Iowa 50010.
Online condolences may be directed to: www.grandonfuneralandcremationcare.com
I often think about Barb and how she was such a devoted and loving person. I am glad that I had the opportunity to help her stay at home and remember the sweet memories of John. Condolences to all the family.
Caregiver, Emma
Steve and Nancy and family:
We know you all loved Grandma and we send our condolences.
Sue andBob
Loved Barb and John. I worked at Hach with Bart. Barb and John invited us into their home whenever we were in town. Invited our Cocker Spaniel, Herschel as well. Wonderful folks. God bless.
Mike & Lynn Young
My condolences to Steve and Bart and your families during these days. I hope your strength and help comes from trusting Christ Jesus.
Wish I had known that Barb was here in Ames. Barb and I were in the same graduation class in Hampton. Her cousin, Ruth and I were married to brothers. Barb and probably could have shared many good times.
I will pray for the comfort of the Lord to bring you and your families through these immediate times.
We love you, Grandma! Thinking of you
sorry to hear of Barb's passing. I remember Barb from the years she worked at our company Ames Seed Farms. My mother is living with me now and she remembers working with Barb and said I think she flew to Ridgway with her and my Dad, Dale Clark, to plant corn. My thoughts and prayers are with all the family.
Pamela (Clark) West
Barb and John were our neighbors on Roxboro. I liked stopping by to see them because they were always so welcoming and gracious. I took my grandkids over, and my dog, and they were always welcoming, be it just me or rambunctious canines and little kids.. In the spring when I took her some hyacinths, you would have thought I'd brought her diamonds. She always remembered and asked about members of my family, our travels, my husband John and his work, and life in general. She was interested, and interesting. She was such a gracious lady, and John was such a gent. Their mutual respect and devotion to each other in age was a great example. I hope to age with that much dignity and class. We will miss them.
Rebecca Christian Patience
Rebecca Christian Patience
Service
Ankeny, Iowa 50023
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