Barbara Elaine Ruda
Barbara Elaine Ruda , Age 76
Barbara Elaine Ruda, age 76, of North Freedom, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at her home, surrounded by her family.
Barbara, the daughter of Glare Nordberg and May Walling Mercado, was born on March 13, 1949, in Janesville, WI.
At age 15, Barbara began working at Redding’s Restaurant in Jefferson, as well as at Schweiger Furniture. She moved to Janesville in 1968, where she married and welcomed three sons. In 1973, she relocated to Merrimac and began working at Shopper Stopper, where she remained for 32 years. Barbara also spent 17 years employed at both the Post Office and Menards, forming many cherished friendships along the way.
In her free time, Barbara found joy in gardening, especially tending to her flowers.
She is survived by her sons, John (Angie), Jerry (April), and Jesse (Ann); her grandchildren, Jerry (Alissa), Karissa (Jonathan), Hailey, and Eli; and her great-grandchildren, Jamie, Madelyn, as well as one on the way, Ellie. She is also survived by her brothers, David (Kim), Rodney (Tia), and Terry; along with many extended family members and very special friends.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Glare Jr., Roger, Bill, Dennis, Tom, and Michael; and her sisters Kathy, Bonnie, and Glenda.
Per Barbara’s wishes, a private service will be held at a later date.
Condolences
Doreen Hamburg December 05, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
I am sorry to hear of Barb's passing. My mom worked with her at the Shopper Stopper and they became fast friends. Mom died in 2015, so I am sure she is glad to have her friend with her in the afterlife! My sympathy to your family!
Barbara Martin December 05, 2025
Family friend my mom Ruth Sutton was Barbs best friend. Horseshoe Bend , Arkansas
We will have many memories or Barb. She was a sweet kind lady. And a dear friend to my mom.
Michael Heiser December 05, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
She was such a nice lady. I delivered her mail for 5 years in freedom and enjoyed her smiling face when I saw her and her conversation. When I seen her at Menards she was always smiling and her conversation was enjoyable. Will miss her dearly. Our sympathy to the family. What a great lady.
Penny Snyder December 05, 2025
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Deepest sympathy to Barbara Family.. Barbara and I become friends since the early 1970. We were always happy to see each other. She always shared a warm smile. Barbara was always working. She loved her family. Rest in Peace Barbara.
Sheri Wolter December 05, 2025
Friend Sauk City , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear of Barb's passing. I did her hair over 30 years. Always enjoyed our visits and the photos of her beautiful flowers. Met all 3 sons & did Hailey's hair also. My sympathy to the whole family & treasure your memories.
Nancy Manion December 06, 2025
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
RIP my friend, you will be missed, my fellow Norwegian. I so loved seeing the pictures of your great grandchildren that you would share with me.