Barbara Picknell

1943 - 2026

Barbara Picknell

June 13, 1943 - January 20, 2026

Barbara Jean Picknell, age 82, of Barron, passed away peacefully at her home on January 20, 2026.

Barb was born to Robert and Jean (Klick) Patrick on June 13, 1943, in Minneapolis, MN. The family relocated to Rice Lake, where she grew up and attended St. Joseph's Catholic School. She was married on August 6, 1960, to William "Gene" Picknell, who preceded her in death on May 1, 2002. The couple settled in Barron, where they raised their children, Lori and Todd.

Barb worked for years at the sewing factory in Barron and later at the bakery in Econo Foods before her retirement. Barb and Gene enjoyed their time spent "Up North" at the trailer in Minong, especially having the grandkids up for a week each summer over the 4th of July.

Family was very important to Barb, and she was quick to point out the blessing of having so many of her family members living close by. Barb also had many dear friends who became family and enjoyed spending time with them over the years, as many of her friendships spanned decades.

She enjoyed watching TV, chatting on the phone, working on crossword puzzles, feeding the birds and bunnies, going for rides, caring for her great-grandchildren, and spending time with her dog, Oliver.

Barb is survived by her daughter, Lori Schmitz and son, Todd Picknell both of Barron; grandchildren, Gina (Harvey) Sookiayak, Tracy (Tom) Rudolf, and Bailey (Scott) Smith all of Rice Lake; 9 great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary (Bernie) Stodola of Barron, Judy Wirth of Rice Lake; brother, Bill Patrick of Big Lake, AK; and many nieces & nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Jean; husband, Gene; son-in-law, Paul Schmitz; daughter-in-law, Danette Picknell; grandson, Dane Picknell; special friend, Charlie Kurtzhals; sister, Dodie Huehn; and brother, Dennis Patrick.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at St. Croix Hospice, especially Leona, Travis, and Jeff, for the wonderful care and support they gave Barb in her final weeks.

Visitation will be from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron, with a memorial service at 7:00 p.m., officiated by Rev. Jeff Elmquist. Burial will be at Wayside Cemetery at a later date.

Arrangements are being handled by Rausch and Steel Funeral Home in Barron. Online condolences can be made at www.rauschandsteelfuneralhome.com.