Barbara M. Gosda

Barbara M. Gosda, age 97, of Janesville, Wi passed away peacefully at Mercy Hospital on Saturday, July 29, 2023. She was born in Janesville on August 29, 1925, the daughter of Edward and Gertrude (Buggs) Lein. She grew up in Janesville and graduated from Janesville High School, Class of 1943.

During World War II Barb was employed as a “Rosie the Riveter” at Parker Pen Company. She married Robert A. “Bob” Gosda on March 23, 1946 shortly after his discharge from the U. S. Army with whom he served in the European Theatre during World War II.

Later, she was employed by Harris Ace Hardware Store as a bookkeeper until she retired in 1989. Barb was an active bowler in several leagues for many years. Following retirement, she was a volunteer at Mercy Hospital and then Rock Haven Nursing Home. She was a lifelong member of St. Peter’s Lutheran Church.

One of the highlights in her life was a Vets Roll trip she was able to take to Washington, DC with her husband, Bob in 2015.

Her greatest joy was her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren and the precious time she was able to spend with them. She was extremely proud of all of them and their accomplishments.

Some of Barb’s favorite things: Many walks around the block, pausing in front of neighbor’s houses in anticipation they will come out for a quick chat. Sitting in the garage enjoying the peacefulness of the neighborhood or sitting in the sunroom watching traffic. Watching the Brewers and Packers. Playing a good game of Dirty Clubs – always trying to take our money. And not to be missed: “WINE TIME”

Barbara Gosda is survived by her children: Jerry (Barb) Gosda, of Janesville, Dennis (Rose) Gosda of New Lisbon, WI, Judy (Scott) Churchill of Janesville; five grandchildren, Michelle (B.C. Van Horn) LaReau, Gary (Lisa) Gosda, Lisa (Dan) Spilde, Jason (Ronda) Gosda, Marie (Sid) Thayer; twelve great-grandchildren, Hannah, Kirsten, Cade, Luke, Kylah, Claire, Amy, John, Caston, Kinley, Colston, Kaisley; three great-great-grandchildren, Zach, Addie and Bailey.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Gosda on July 5, 2020. She was also preceded in death by one son, Thomas Gosda, one grandson Keith Gosda, one great-grandson Danny Gosda as well as her parents.

Private services will be held on Tuesday, August 8, 2023 at Milton Lawns Memorial Park. Please omit flowers. Memorials may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran Church. The Gosda family is being assisted by HENKE-CLARSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY. Online condolences may be directed to www.henkeclarson.com.