Barbara Jeane Wann

Barbara Jeane Wann, age 80, of New Prague, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2026, at Mayo Clinic Health System - Mankato, following a courageous battle with cancer.

Barb was born on March 1, 1946, in Independence, Iowa, to Ted and Georgia (Simpson) Franz. When she was just 18 months old, her family moved to New Prague, where she grew up and formed many lifelong friendships. She graduated from New Prague High School in 1964 and went on to pursue her nursing education at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis.

Barb married Chuck Wann, and the two were married for over 20 years. During their marriage, they moved to Mankato, where Barb worked as a registered nurse at Immanuel St. Joseph's Hospital and welcomed their first child, David. The family later returned to New Prague, where their second child, Lori, was born. Barb raised her children in New Prague, a community that remained an important part of her life.

Nursing was more than a career for Barb, it was a reflection of her genuine compassion and desire to care for others. She spent 20 years as a registered nurse at Parkview Medical Clinic before continuing her career at Southdale Pediatrics in Burnsville. After many years of dedicated service, she retired from nursing in 2016. Throughout her career, Barb touched countless lives with her kindness, knowledge, and caring nature.

One of Barb's greatest joys was spending time at Cedar Lake, where she made her home. She loved being near the water and found comfort and peace in the lake's natural beauty. It was truly her sanctuary, a place where she could relax and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. She also enjoyed reading, particularly medical dramas and suspense novels.

Barb was a naturally social person who treasured her friendships. She had a remarkable ability to maintain close relationships throughout her life, including friendships that began in grade school. She genuinely cared about the people in her life and made an effort to stay connected with those she loved. Her warmth, honesty, and wonderful sense of humor made her someone people enjoyed being around. Barb was never one to hide her feelings, her expressions often said exactly what she was thinking, a quality that those closest to her knew and loved.

Above all, Barb was a devoted and supportive mother. She was always there for her children, whether cheering them on at sporting events, attending school functions, encouraging their education, or simply being present through life's ups and downs. Her love and support extended well beyond her immediate family, as she was always willing to offer a helping hand or a listening ear to those who needed her.

A member of St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church, Barb lived a life guided by her faith and strong personal values. She was a woman of integrity who believed in honesty, kindness, and doing what was right. She instilled those same values in her children and led by example. With a heart of gold, Barb had a genuine concern for others and made a lasting, positive impression on the people fortunate enough to know her.

After being diagnosed with cancer in 2019, Barb faced the years that followed with remarkable courage and determination. She fought a long and difficult battle, showing strength and perseverance until the very end.

Barb will be deeply missed by her family, her many friends, and all whose lives she touched. She will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering love for her family, enduring friendships, quick wit, and the kindness she so freely shared with others.

Barb is survived by her children, David (Pamela) Wann of Chanhassen and Lori (Steve) Meloche of Shakopee; grandchildren, Eric Wann and Taylor Wann (fiancé Joe); her special friend of 32 years, Brett Dockery; brother-in-law, Art (Ann) Wann; a niece, a nephew, and many loving friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, November 2, 2026 at Bruzek Funeral Home, 610 Main Street East, New Prague, MN, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Czech National Cemetery in New Prague.