Barbara Ann Hoffman

Barbara Ann Hoffman, formerly Kempenar, was born on June 2, 1938, to Vito and Mary Ranallo in Kansas City, Missouri. She passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at the age of 87.

Barbara married the love of her life, Francis “Richard” Kempenar, in Olathe, Kansas, where together they raised their three children. After dedicating herself to her family, Barbara spent most of her career working for the Olathe School District in the special education office. She was a woman whose presence brought comfort and joy, truly a light in every room she entered.

A true homebody, Barbara found joy in quiet, familiar things. She appreciated routine, comfort, and familiar faces. She enjoyed playing bridge, keeping up with politics, and had a lifelong love of shopping, finding happiness in life’s small pleasures.

Known for her great sense of humor, Barbara brought warmth and laughter wherever she went. She was a shoulder to lean on, a steady source of encouragement, and someone whose love felt constant and reassuring. Her faith was the foundation of her life. A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, she lived out her beliefs through kindness, compassion, and grace. She carried a joyful hope in the promise of heaven and often spoke with love and anticipation about being reunited with Richard, the late father of her children and the great love of her life.

Barbara cherished a small but deeply meaningful circle of people. Those fortunate enough to be part of it knew just how special they were to her. She will always be remembered for her constant, contagious laughter, a sound she held onto faithfully and shared generously, even in her final days.

Years after Richard’s passing, Barbara found companionship, love, and joy again through her marriage to Larry Hoffman. Their relationship was a meaningful chapter of her life, filled with partnership, care, and shared moments, and it remained an important part of her story even after his passing.

In addition to her husbands, Richard and Larry, Barbara was preceded in death by her sister, Josephine Biondo.

Barbara is survived by her two dear sisters, Pauline Martin and Mary Vee Ranallo, and their children; her three children, John Kempenar (Anne), Steve Kempenar (Denise), and Julie Klaasmeyer (Dale); two stepchildren, Mike Kempenar (Julie) and Peggy Geaudreau (Ray); twelve grandchildren (including three step-grandchildren); and eighteen great-grandchildren (including four step-great-grandchildren).

Barbara’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched, the laughter she shared, the faith she modeled, and the love she gave so freely. She is reunited with loved ones, including her beloved Yorkie, Lola, her faithful companion and best friend, whose presence brought her immense comfort and joy throughout her later years. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 1:00 pm at The Cedar Lake Village Worship and Life Center, 15325 S. Lone Elm Rd. Olathe, Kansas 66061

In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Barbara's favorite charity, St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. For more information, visit

www.stjudes.org