Barbara Umland

Barbara “Barb” Jean (Bauler) Umland, age 86, of Wadena, Minnesota, passed away on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at the Lakewood Care Center in Staples, Minnesota.

Barb was born on July 9, 1938, in Madison, Minnesota, to Matthew “Stub” and Selma (Larson) Bauler. Barb shared a special and unique bond with her brother Ken, who was a source of much love and strength in her life.

It was on a special day in the summer of 1958 that Barb met the love of her life; Harlan “Harley” Umland. Barb and Harley were united in marriage on June 16, 1962, in Madison. They made their home in Wadena, Minnesota where they raised their three children: Gary, Cindy and Debbie.  

Barb’s life was devoted to her family, friends, church and volunteer work. Fond family memories with Barb include days at the lake, playing cards, shopping, baking and spending quality time together.  When she wasn’t doting on Harley and her family, Barb could be found socializing with all of her lady friends.  From Tuesday Coffee Club to neighborhood gatherings, Card Clubs, Christmas Cookie get togethers and many, many more, Barb found great joy and support from her vast network of friends.  Church was another important part of Barb’s life.  She was a long-time member of St. John Lutheran’s Church and spent untold hours at the church and with the Dorcas Guild.  Volunteering was a significant part of Barb's life.  She spent decades volunteering with the VFW Ladies Auxiliary Guild, where she performed honorary burials, marched in parades, worked the Fish Fry and sold countless poppies.  Barb also enjoyed volunteering with Meals on Wheels, Pink Ladies and years as Head Election Judge.   

Barb was quick to surround her family and friends with love, hugs, a bright smile, a heartfelt laugh and a plate of homemade baked goods. She was incredibly proud to be a grandma and great grandma. Her grandkids meant the world to her.  Barb enjoyed reading, bird watching and her flower garden. Her favorite flowers were Lady Slippers, tulips and irises. Barb was a breast cancer survivor of over 25 years.

Deeply loved, Barb’s passing will be mourned by her husband of 62 years Harley; children: Gary Umland, Cindy Umland, and Deb Bauler; her four grandchildren: Jacob (Brittani) Umland, Zach Umland, Sophia Williamson, and Bennett Williamson; her two great-granddaughters: Lili and Harper; sister-in-laws MaryAnn Bauler and Shirley Eisenlohr; many other relatives and a host of friends.

Barb is preceded in death by her parents, Matthew and Selma, and her brothers: Kenneth and Donald (Florence) Bauler.

Barb’s family want to extend their deep appreciation to the staff at the Lakewood Care Center for the tender care of their wife and mother in her last days.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Umland, please visit our floral store.