Barbara Jean (Hawkins) Kuhns

Barbara Jean Hawkins Kuhns, 85, Green Bay, WI. Barbara died peacefully at home on July 1, 2012 with her family surrounding her with love. She was born September 30, 1926 in Morgantown, WV, daughter of Arthur Cecil Hawkins and Nellie Swearingen Hawkins. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; brothers: Carroll and Arthur; and sister, Eileen. She is survived by her loving husband, George William Kuhns, and four children: Debbie Petersen (Bill), Pat Hittle (Dave Niermann), Scot, and Marcy Walz (Rick); and a brother, Forrest Hawkins. She will be missed by her 10 grandchildren: Kate Hittle, Lauren Kraemer (John), Christoffer Petersen (Kathryn), Alexandra Petersen, Kyle, Casey, and Mackenzie Walz, and Vanessa, Victoria, and Alex Kuhns; and 1 great granddaughter, Mallory Jean Kraemer. Barbara and George were married on August 18, 1946, and celebrated almost 66 years together. Barbara graduated from West Virginia University and continued her education receiving her Master of Science in Physical Education. She taught Physical Education at Potomac State College for 6 years. She lived in Pennsylvania, Indiana, Illinois and Minnesota, supporting her husband and raising her family. She learned how to “keep the books” when she and George started their own car dealership, and they continued to work side by side until they retired in 1989. Barbara was a loving and generous mother. Even though she was one of the few working moms in the neighborhood, she was always there when her children needed her. Barbara moved to Green Bay in 1990 to help care for her grandchild and never left. She even became a Packer fan! She continued to keep busy and worked at several places, retiring again from Target last September after 10 years. It was always about family for Barbara and she will be forever missed. A celebration of her life will be held at Cotter Funeral Home in De Pere, WI on Tuesday, July 3, 2012 at 5:00 p.m. with Rev. Randy Richter officiating. Friends who wish to pay their respects are welcome beginning at 4:00 p.m. Online condolences may be expressed at www.cotterfuneralhome.com. Family has requested no flowers; and any memorials should be directed to Unity Hospice. The family would like to thank all her caregivers from Home Instead and Unity Hospice. They made her last weeks at home comfortable and possible. Maybe death isn't darkness, after all, but so much light wrapping itself around us-- Mary Oliver