Barbara Ardith Skellenger, 75, of Mason City, IA, passed away on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at
Oakwood Care Center in Clear Lake, IA.
Per Barb’s wishes, cremation has taken place and no services will be held at this time.
Barbara Ardith Buchanan was born on January 13, 1950, in Mason City, IA, to Gordon and
Ardith (Kinseth) Buchanan. She grew up in the area and graduated from Ventura High School in
1968.
Barb’s life was forever changed on June 8, 1970, when she met Steve Skellenger at the Band
Fest in Mason City. After spending just a few hours together, Steve asked her to marry him.
Without hesitation, Barb said yes. Their immediate connection blossomed into a love that would
last 54 beautiful years. They were married on August 8, 1970, and together, they built a life filled
with love, laughter, and deep devotion.
After living in the Mason City area for some time, Barb and Steve moved to California, where
they spent 33 years before returning to Iowa and settling in Clear Lake.
Barb truly cherished the time she spent with Steve. In 2004-2005, she worked side by side with
him in his hobby shop in Mason City, an experience she enjoyed deeply. Whether tending to her
garden, preparing meals in the kitchen, or assisting in the workshop, Barb was happiest when
she was with Steve, sharing in their simple joys and mutual passions.
A woman of many talents, Barb had a special love for gardening. She took great pride in
growing vegetables for canning and carefully arranging colorful flowers around her home. Her
homemade pizza sauce and marinara were beloved by all who tasted them, and her culinary
talents will be fondly remembered.
Barb will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering love for her family, and her devotion
to those who mattered most. Above all, she will be remembered for the deep bond she shared
with Steve—one that spanned more than five decades. Together, they created a life rich in
memories, grounded in love, and full of simple pleasures.
Barb is survived by her loving husband, Steve Skellenger; her siblings Pam, Jan, and Karen;
her brother-in-laws Dave, Dan (Darci), and Robert (Kathy); her sister-in-laws Sarah, Cherri
(Jim), and Jana; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Gordon and Ardith Buchanan; her dear sister and
best friend, Vickie; and her brother, Al.
