On Friday, February 16, 2024, our beloved mother Barbara Jean Ingram, age 73, of Gladstone, received her angel wings following a brief illness. Barb was born January 31, 1951, in Gladstone, the youngest daughter of William and Doris Mackie.
After being a stay-at-home mother for many years, Barb decided it was time to further her education. Shortly after finishing her degree, she landed her dream job at Bay College where she was the secretary to the Dean of Liberal Arts, happily retiring after 22 years. She loved every second of working at the College, especially alongside her first boss and mentor, Dr. Lynn Lindeman. In 2015, she was selected for one of the Outstanding Staff Awards, which meant the world to her.
In 1998, while working at the College, Barb also became the co-owner of 4 J’s Family Restaurant, where she primarily took care of all the administrative and bookkeeping duties. The restaurant was sold in 2017, however, the passion for the food industry continued when she helped her daughter purchase The Dewdrop Family Restaurant. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time at The Dewdrop mingling with the customers and heckling the employees (in a fun and humorous way).
One of Barb’s greatest joys in life was being a grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and enjoyed every second she got to spend with them doing crafts, coloring, and playing games. She also had the amazing ability to put together the most thoughtful, and sometimes hilarious gifts for her family. Her sense of humor was truly the best!
In her spare time, Barb enjoyed frequenting the Casino, playing card games, watching The Packers, and listening to all genres of music, especially live music. She even had a signature dance move that we’ll always cherish.
Barb is survived by her daughters from her first marriage to Jerry Ketcham; Amy Ketcham, Amanda Phillips, and Kimberly (Shawn) Thompson, her best friend and life partner Gary Ingram; stepchildren Jarred (Tamara) Ingram, Justin Ingram, and Charlene (Rob) Thiede, along with her beloved grandchildren, Jacob and Landon Phillips and Lily and Ethan Thompson. She’s also survived by her siblings Thomas Mackie, Patricia Goes, and Sandy Bero.
She is preceded in death by her beloved dog, Buddy, her parents, and siblings William (Popeye),Courtney, Audrey, Carolyn, Kathleen, and Mary.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 2 – 4 pm, with a short service following. A celebration of life and luncheon will follow at The Dewdrop Family Restaurant from 5 – 7 pm.
Barb’s daughters would also like to extend a special thank you to their father and stepmother, Jerry and Vivian Ketcham, for their unconditional love and support during this difficult time.
In place of flowers, memorial contributions in Barb’s name may be directed to the Delta County Cancer Society or the Delta Animal Shelter.
Paul L. Strom - Escanaba, Mi
We met through the music. We played for her, and she liked us. Barb had good suggestions, music, family, and food. Above all, she Praised the Lord. We will meet again. I feel her spirit very strongly. Amen
Heather Euler - La Crosse, WI
I am so sorry for the loss of the Beloved Barb! Kimberly talked him highly of her mom right up to the end
I pray that you all find peace and comfort during this difficult time of transition.
Joy Ott - ESCANABA, MI
So sorry to hear this. I worked at Bay College with Barb, and she was always attentive to her job and enjoyed the many friends we had there. It was one big happy family at the time, and we enjoyed every minute of it. Rest in Peace Barb. I am sure you are at rest now in the arms of our Savior. My condolences to her whole family. You have a lot to be thankful with Barb as your Mentor, Mother, Grandmother and whoever relation you were to her. She was a wonderful person. Joy Ott
Cheryl Stanek - Gladstone, MI
I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Barb’s passing.
She was such a kind, caring
person. Always a smile on her face for others.
My thoughts and prayers go out to her family,
Cheryl Stanek
Daniel Doyle - Gladstone, MI
Worked with her at Bay. She was the go to person to get things done.
Chris Holmes - Escanaba, MI
I worked with Barb for several years at Bay and she was always very good-natured with lots of good humor and high-spirited. Always enjoyed working with her and appreciated her kindness and caring nature. She cared greatly for her children and grandchildren. Saddened to hear of her passing.
Pam Thorbahn - Gladstone, Mi
am s o sorry to read of Barb’s passing. She was a classmate and sort of neighbor. Always a smiling, bubbly person. Pam T.
Laurie Johnson - Gladstone, MI
For my first 15 years working at Bay College, Barb was the go-to person to help me through every administrative hurdle and procedural worry I would have. Her calm presence and sense of humor, not to mention sheer competence, always overcame my frustration when I couldn’t figure something out on my own. After her retirement it was always a joy to run into her unexpectedly at the restaurant or around town, get a hug and catch up on each other’s lives. I am truly sorry to hear of her passing. She was a special person, and I know she will be missed by all those who knew her.
Kathy Wolak - Escanaba, MI
I had the pleasure to meet and work with Barb at Bay College. She was always kind, knowledgeable and had a wonderful sense of humor. She was great with students, coworkers and the public. She was a people person and sure will be missed. Thoughts and prayers to her family at this time. Rest in peace, dear friend.❤
Ann Sebeck - Port Charlotte, Fl
To all of Barb’s family, I am so sorry for your loss! She was truly a very special lady and will be missed greatly. Barb is the reason I was hired at Bay. During an interview with her boss, Lynn Lindstrom, he stated, “You two must be good friends, because she sure is promoting you for this hire!” I had only met Barb a few times before and didn’t really know her. She knew how badly I wanted the job and certainly helped me get it. We quickly became friends, I could always go to her with Bay questions and she had the answers. She was that kind of person, very welcoming, friendly and genuine! I will miss you Barb, hugs and love to you and your family.
Janine Adams - Gladstone, MI
My sincere condolences to Barb’s family and all who loved her. I worked for a time as an adjunct instructor at Bay, and Barb was incredibly helpful, knowing just exactly how to support everyone. Thank you, Barb, for your humor and helpfulness. Such a positive light!
Tammy Hanson - Escanaba, MI
Our Auntie Barb… she will stay in our hearts forever. She was loved and admired more than she knew and will be missed beyond measure.
Jo Skogman - Madison, WI
Barb was so friendly and helpful to customers at the Dew Drop.
Carmen Gruber - Slinger, WI
To Barb’s family, you have my deepest sympathies.
Barb will never be far. The memories and stories you have of her will keep her near you and in your heart.
Wishing you peace, comfort, and healing during this time.
Leah Sexton - Gladstone, MI
Barb was always the best resource person at Bay College. Her friendly outgoing welcoming personality gave many instructors a sense of community and belonging. It was a joy knowing her and working with her. Our condolences to her family.