Barbara A. “Barb” Johnson

Barbara A. “Barb” Johnson, age 88, of Dubuque, IA, completed her earthly journey on March 26, 2026, at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics. To honor Barb’s life, a private family service will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque. The Tri-State Cremation Center is humbly serving Barb’s family.

Barb was born on May 23, 1937, in Dubuque, IA, one of five daughters to George “Kermit” and Dolores A. (Droessler) Johnson. She was gifted with a stubborn streak combined with an intellectual stamina which assisted her in many situations life presented over the years. She devoted her time and talents to DuTrac Community Credit Union for more than 30 years. She made many friends along the way and found great satisfaction in sharing her skills with those around her.

In her free-time, Barb was well-rounded in all aspects of life. She could often be found sitting at her arts and craft table working on her most recent creation, but sitting down and relaxing with a good book was never out of the question. She and her sisters also wrote two novels. Christmas was undeniably her favorite holiday and her Santa Claus collection was second to none. Those who knew her best were well aware that she had an insatiable sweet tooth and rarely passed up one of her favorites. Barb was also an excellent card player and her ability to hold and play the best hands was truly uncanny. Throw a little Statler Brothers on in the background and Barb was definitely in her happy place. We are going to miss our dear sister, aunt, and friend moving forward, but are forever grateful for the memories which remain. Thank you, Barb, for living life on your terms, remembering to love those around you. May God bless and keep you safe in His loving arms until we see your beautiful smile once again.

Those left to cherish the memory of Barb include her four sisters:

Susan Kuhn, Asbury, IA,

Linda (Lyle) Ronek, Asbury, IA,

Marcia Backes, Dubuque, IA,

and Nancy Hohnecker, Lee’s Summit, MO;

along with eight nieces and nephews and extended family members.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother-in-law, Thomas Backes. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Barbara’s name to St. Mark’s Youth Enrichment Center, 2065 Holliday Drive, Dubuque, IA, 52002

Barb’s family thank the nurses and staff at the University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics for all of their professional and compassionate care.  We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to Dr. Whalen at Tri-State Dialysis for their wonderful care.

Online condolences may be shared with Barb’s family at www.tristatecremationcenter.com