Barbara J. Alitz

Runnells, Iowa - Barbara Jean Alitz, 71, passed away at home on Thursday, May 23, 2013.

She grew up in Mason City and graduated from Holy Family Catholic School. Barbara married John Alitz in 1960. They made their home in Runnells, Iowa, where they raised their four children: twin sons, John and Joe, son, Jim, and daughter, Janna. They celebrated 53 years of marriage. Barb loved her family, her church and her work.

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Des Moines. Barb was a dedicated employee of Southridge Hy-Vee, Des Moines, for 27 years. Barb enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She also enjoyed gardening and collecting antiques.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Francis Graner; and two brothers: Lewis and Jack Graner. She leaves behind her husband, John; children, John (MaryKay), Joe (Katie), Jim (Tracy) and Janna (Ryan) Wheatly; 12 grandchildren; siblings, Mildred (Norm) Mondahl, Marylou (John) Behm, Patricia (Larry) Szymeczek and Joan Evans (Joe Ricketts) and their families.

Visitation will be from 5 until 7 p.m., Monday, May 27, at Iles Funeral Homes- Grandview Park Chapel, 3211 Hubbell Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa, followed by a rosary.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 28, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Des Moines. Burial will be at St. John's Catholic Cemetery rural Cumming, Iowa. Donations may be directed to St. Joseph Catholic Church. Online condolences may be left at www.IlesCares.com.