Barbara L. Kardules

Barbara Kardules, 83, passed away surrounded by family on September 12, 2025. She was born on April 4, 1942, to her late parents George “Pat” and Edna (Sperberg) Anderson in Shawano WI.

Upon graduating from Shawano High School in 1960, she attended college at Wisconsin State College – Stevens Point where she earned a degree in English Education. In college she met Jack, the one and only love of her life, and they were married for 28 years, until his untimely passing in 1993.

Barb worked in the service industry throughout her career, doing what she did best, helping others. She retired as a supervisor in economic support for Sheboygan County. After she retired, she moved to Appleton WI to be closer to family. She had a strong passion for gardening, and she would spend countless hours working in her beautiful berms and flower gardens. She was an avid reader and made weekly visits to the public library. She had a deep appreciation for culture and the arts and went to multiple Broadway musicals across the country. She loved to travel and was so happy she was able to take multiple European vacations.

Barb truly cared for other people. Beyond all, her greatest joy in love was her family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother. She did her best to attend any and all events for her kids and grandkids between Wisconsin and Illinois. She was known as “Baba” by her grandchildren. She exemplified loyalty, unconditional love, unwavering support and selflessness. She was the most amazing mother and grandmother you could ask for. She also had a special place in her heart for “the kitties”. She enjoyed traveling to Shawano most weeks to spend time with family.

She is survived by her daughters Stefanie (Chuck) Zuraitis and Julie (Joe) Wenzel, grandchildren CJ Zuraitis, Madline Zuraitis, and Ben Zuraitis, Lucas (Vanessa) Wenzel, Hailey Wenzel, 1 great grandchild Elizabeth, sister Gwen Zippel, sisters-in-law Sharon Anderson and Anna Lewis, along with being Aunt Barb to many nieces and nephews.

Barb is preceded in death by her parents, husband, and brother “Skipper” and other extended family members.

There will be a funeral service on September 26, 2025, at Wichmann Funeral Homes. The visitation will be from 9am to 11am with the service starting at 11.

Barb/Mom/Baba will be missed beyond measure. She leaves a deep void in our hearts but will always be loved and cherished.

Memorials can be sent to St. Judes Children’s Hospital.