Barbara Ann Kolars

Barbara Ann Kolars, 83, of McPherson, Kansas, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025 at McPherson Health and Rehab. She was born on March 3, 1942 in Fairbury, Nebraska, to John and Esther Irene (Snodgrass) Stelling.

She cleaned for a living and worked as a housekeeper for many years.

Barbara enjoyed spending her time outdoors when she was younger, often fishing and horseback riding. She loved to cook and dance. Barbara was known as friendly, stubborn and strong-willed. She always fought for what she believed in, could hold her own and wasn’t afraid to let you know what she was thinking.

When she first moved into McPherson Health and Rehab, she sat by the front door for two days as she wanted to go home. She later realized this was her new home and embraced her time there. Barbara enjoyed being involved in the activities and became one of the staff’s favorite residents. During Christmas, she enjoyed when Santa came to visit the home. She also loved when the local motorcycle club would come by and give residents rides on their Harley Davidson bikes.

On her good days she would often be found drinking coffee, sitting in her favorite chair in the dining room and would often refer to those around her as “honey”.

Barbara is survived by her children, Bobby Aue of Jerome, ID, Bill Baker of Torrington, WY, Larry Curry of Diller, NE, and JeanAnn Jewell of Auburn, NE; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and her many friends at McPherson Health and Rehab.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, John Franklin Stelling; and sisters, Etta Herfel, Esther Reed, and Bethel Holle.

Cremation is planned with private family inurnment to take place at Fairbury Cemetery, Fairbury, Nebraska. Memorial contributions may be made to McPherson Health and Rehab in care of Moundridge Funeral Home, PO Box 410, Moundridge, KS 67107.