Barbara Lou Kleinknecht

She was the beloved wife of the late Donald Lee Kleinknecht, with whom she shared over 60 cherished years filled with love and loyalty. Together, they built a life rooted in family and togetherness.

Barbara was the loving mother of Mark Kleinknecht and Kelly Taddia, and the proud grandmother of Matthew, Ashley, and Paige Kleinknecht, and Olivia and Camryn Taddia, who brought her endless joy. While she had many passions, her most important job—and the one she loved the most—was being a mother and a grandmother. She nurtured her children and grandchildren with boundless love, always present to share wisdom, support, and affection. Her family was her world, and she filled their lives with warmth, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

A true Michigan sports enthusiast, Barbara had an unwavering devotion to her beloved Detroit Tigers. She rarely missed watching a game and she could rattle off player stats and game highlights with the best of them. Barbara cheered passionately for all of Michigan’s sports teams, from football to hockey, living through every win and loss with the heart of a true fan. Her family fondly recalls the energy she brought to game days, from her spirited commentary to wearing her lucky Tigers hat for good luck.

Preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Helen Barron, and her siblings Robert Barron, Richard Barron, and Carol Cox, Barbara’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Outside of sports, Barbara had a deep love of reading and was always surrounded by books. She was also a dog whisperer who had a magical connection with her pets and knew all the dogs in the neighborhood by name. Her home was a warm and welcoming place where laughter flowed freely, and her sense of humor and easygoing nature made her beloved by all, especially to her close neighborhood friends who loved and cared for her.

Barbara’s greatest legacy is the love she gave to her family, and her passion, generosity, and care will be missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories, and her devotion to her children and grandchildren will forever be a guiding light in their lives.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Barbara’s memory to the Michigan Humane Society, honoring her deep love and care for animals.