Barbara Ann Ruemmele

Barbara was born on November 4, 1931, in the town of Hansen, Wood County Wisconsin to Otto and Gertrude Kissner. She was the third of nine children. She was baptized on November 22, 1931, by Father John Willitzer at St Joachim Catholic Church in Pittsville, Wisconsin and later confirmed on September 10, 1946, by Bishop John Treacy.

In 1950, Barbara graduated from Maryheart Country Day School in Pittsville, WI and entered the Candidature of the School Sisters of Notre Dame (SSND) in Milwaukee WI, where she began her college education at Mt. Mary College. In 1952 she was received into SSND as Novice (SR, Mary Roselyn). She received her first vows into SSND in 1953. During her time as a Sister, she taught at various grade schools in Wisconsin until 1971.

Starting in 1975, Barbara served as the Coordinator of Religious Education Program for preschool through 6th grade at St Patrick Parish in Hudson. It was at a St Patrick's Church dance that she met John Joseph Ruemmele. The two were married on June 26, 1976, at St Patrick Catholic Church beginning a lifetime of love and faith.

Barbara's love of faith and music continued throughout her life. Beginning in 1982, she directed the Hope Choir for funerals at St Patrick's Church, offering comfort and grace through song. From 1982 to 1984, she also directed Religious Education and Catechist Training and Sacramental programs at St Bridget's in River Falls, WI. She was a longtime member of the St. Patrick Liturgy Committee. Barbara faithfully served her parish community for decades. 

Outside of her ministry and music, Barbara found great joy in her gardens. She was an avid gardener with a special love for her cherished rose bushes. Known for her caring heart and loving personality, she touched everyone she met with kindness and compassion.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Ruemmele, her parents Otto and Gertrude Kissner, mother-in-law Ethlyn Ruemmele, siblings Jerry, Herb, Tony, and Mary Rose, and brother-in-law, Robert Arens. 

She is survived by her siblings; Elizabeth Turner, Theresa (Larry) Keyzer, Richard (Phylis) Kissner, JoAnn (Art) Koskela and in-laws; Thomas (Nell) Ruemmele and Kathleen Arens.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Hudson, Wisconsin on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 11AM with a visitation from 10-11AM.  Burial to follow at St. Patrick's Cemetery.