Barbara Ehlen

Barbara Jean Ehlen (Schuch), age 65, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 12, 1960, in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Barb was the daughter of Delores Theresa La Montagne (Schuch) and Edward Rudolph Schuch. In 1994, she made Merrillan, Wisconsin her home, where she built a life full of friendships, laughter, and countless memories.

Barb shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Raymond Robert Ehlen. Together they created a life centered around family, adventure, and the simple joy of being outdoors. Whether it was riding the trails in their UTV with friends, camping, or enjoying time surrounded by nature, Barb found happiness in the moments spent with those she loved most. When the two of them were out driving the back roads, they would often stop just to watch the deer and other wildlife-usually about "ten trees in," as they liked to say-taking in the peaceful beauty of the woods together.

She was a proud and devoted mother to Cynthia R. Johnson (Cody), Kristopher R. Ehlen, and her "daughter from another mother and father," Marie A. Braatz. Nothing brought Barb more joy than being "Meme" to her grandchildren Donovan, Skyler, Ayden, Lily, Adrien, Brooklynn, and Natalie, and great-grandchildren Bryer and Weston. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Barb had a gift for making people feel welcome and cared for. She could strike up a conversation with anyone and seemed to make friends wherever she went. Her sense of humor and warm personality meant there was almost always laughter nearby when Barb was around.

In her younger years, Barb was proud to have worked at Mullens Shoe Store. Later, she chose to run an in-home daycare for many years so she could stay home and raise her children, Cyndi and Kris, something that meant the world to her. After moving north, Barb worked for more than 6 years as a CNA with Family Heritage. She later spent over 24 years as a phlebotomist at Krohn Clinic, where she cared for patients with compassion and kindness before retiring in 2023. Throughout her career, she touched countless lives with her gentle nature and caring spirit. Barb also dedicated time to serving her community as a first responder with the Hatfield Fire Department, and she frequently volunteered at local food banks, always eager to help others and give back.

Outside of work, Barb embraced life fully. She loved caring for her flowers, thrifting for hidden treasures, and spending time outdoors. She enjoyed shuffleboard league, annual farm breakfasts, camping trips, annual girls' weekends with her nurses, and making memories at Cranfest with her sisters and nieces each year. Traveling, Sunday rides and exploring new places brought her joy, but she was happiest when surrounded by family and friends.

Barb was proceeded in death by her parents; her brother, Carl Schuch; her in-laws, Raymond W. and Della J. Ehlen; and her beloved Border Collie, DJ (Della Janet), who held a very special place in her heart.

Barb's greatest legacy is the love she gave so freely. She taught those around her to love deeply, to be kind, and to cherish every moment. Her warmth, laughter, and light will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but the memories she created will live on in the hearts of her family and friends forever.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her oncologist, Dr. Oettel, and the compassionate care teams at Krohn Clinic, Gundersen La Crosse, Mayo Clinic in Rochester, and St. Croix Hospice for the exceptional care and support they provided.

A celebration of Barb's life will be held at a later date.