Barbara Ballard Kleier

1933 - 2022

BARBARA BALLARD KLEIER

1933 - 2022

Barbara Ballard Kleier, 89, died Monday, June 6, 2022, in Bakersfield, California from complications of non-tuberculosis mycobacterium, an infection related to her heart valve replacement.

She leaves behind six children and their spouses Gerry Kleier and Samantha Hankins, Tim and Kristi Kleier, Katie Kleier and Kevan Hensman, Connie Kleier Mc Glynn, Loren Kleier, Elizabeth Kleier and Lewis Bornmann III, sixteen grandchildren: Beryl MacLeod, Alice Kleier, Patrick Kleier, Matthew Kleier, Courtney Hensman, Margaret Mc Glynn Reinhardt, Cate Mc Glynn, Thomas Mc Glynn, James Royal, William Kleier, Mitchell Kleier, Michael Royal, Collette Kleier and Callais Kleier, Emily Flint and Lewis Bornmann IV as well as two great-grandchildren Callie Ann Hensman and Calvin John Kleier.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Larry Kleier in 2007, her daughter Lynn Ellen in 1961, her parents Gervais Joseph Ballard and Mildred Drugo Ballard, her brother and sister Francis and Maureen Ballard as well as her cherished sister-in-law Sally Kleier Summers.

Born in Bakersfield, CA on May 9, 1933, Barbara spent her early days attending local schools, St. Francis Elementary, Emerson Jr. High and Kern County High School, graduating in 1951. Barbara was very active in high school, participating in many clubs. Her favorite clubs were the interracial club and Aquanets. Barbara graduated in 1955 from San Jose State University with a degree in Education.

Barbara first saw Larry at a dance at the Women's Club in 1953. She knew she'd found the man she would marry. The next year they served as President and Vice President of the Newman Club and their lifelong romance ignited. The couple were married on February 5, 1955, in Bakersfield, CA. The 52-year marriage was replete with love, laughter, family, and friends.

Barbara taught in local schools until she became a full-time mother to her growing family. Barbara was very active in the lives of her children. She served as parent club president at OLPH and Garces, led her daughter's Blue Bird group and volunteered in classrooms. While her children attended OLPH, she spearheaded the Parish fundraiser twice. Barbara and Larry with other members of the Garces Parent Club created the Les Brown and his Band of Renown fundraiser, a popular event for many years. Additionally, she and good friend Dorothy Peters cooked the beans twice a year for the annual Garces BBQ often serving more than 1200 people. In 1993, she received the Bob Carroll Service Award from Garces for her years of outstanding service. Additionally, Barbara served on the local board of the National Council of Alcoholism and was a member of the Women's Club. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting and stitchery. She made blankets and other beautiful creations for her children and their families and knitted Christmas stockings for her grandchildren. Barbara was extremely proud of her children and grandchildren and reveled in their accomplishments. Being a wife, Mom and Mimi were her greatest accomplishments. Nothing brought her greater joy.

After Larry's retirement, Barbara and Larry traveled extensively throughout the US. They also enjoyed numerous trips to Europe. After his death Barbara remained very active enjoying the company of her bridge buddies. The group spent many hours playing cards, attending local theater, seeing movies, and enjoying meals together. They kept Barbara's days busy and interesting.

Barbara will be remembered for the love and attention given to her husband, children, and friends as well as her sense of humor, mischievous nature, and zest for life. She rarely let troubles bring her down and was always prepared for better days to come.

The family would like to acknowledge Dr. Soe Soe Win, Dr. Kevin Stiles, Dr. Nirav Desai, Dr. Lisa Cowan and her exceptional case manager Sandy Ryan, RN for their constant care.

Visitation and Rosary will take place on June 22, 2022 from 4-8 pm in the Chapel of Greenlawn Cemetery Northeast, 3700 River Blvd. in Bakersfield. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 am on June 23, 2022 at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 900 H Street, Bakersfield, CA. Burial will follow at Greenlawn Cemetery Northeast, 3700 River Blvd.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Garces Memorial High School, 2800 Loma Linda Drive Bakersfield, CA 93305, or the charity of your choice.

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