In loving memory of

Barbara Kerns
August 19, 1932 - December 25, 2018

Barbara Jane Kerns, 86, of West Des Moines, Iowa, died peacefully on December 25, 2018. Born August 19, 1932, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she was the daughter of the late Richard T. Bush and Roberta E. Bush.
Barbara married the late Gerald Kerns, March 15, 1952. They lived in Alaska, California and numerous towns in Iowa during their marriage. Barbara was a homemaker who raised two children. She was also a seamstress and provided child care. She was an active member of the Congregational Church in Peterson, Iowa. Barbara enjoyed entertaining in her home. She loved her family, friends, angels, horses and basketball. In later years Barbara became a Reiki Master and learned how to dowse. She was an avid student of Spiritual Response Therapy and was an instructor for several years. She was also a graduate of Quantum Quests International (Jonathan Parker) school of advanced energy healing.
She is survived by two brothers, Richard D. Bush (Shirley) and Donald Bush (Leslie); her children Kerry Johnson (Mark) and Alan Kerns (Debra); two grandchildren Joshua Kerns (Becki) and Jacob Kerns (Missy); and five great-grandchildren Kane, Payton, Delainey, Katie and Henry Kerns. She also leaves behind several nieces, nephews and numerous loving relatives and friends.
Barbara requested a private funeral. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Ed Thomas Family Foundation or Wildwood Hills Ranch of Iowa.
Online condolences can be left on Barbara's Memorial Tribute at www.celebratelifeiowa.com.

Tributes

Karen Kellogg wrote on Mar 25, 2019:

"Barbara was so wise, so youthful looking-her beauty stayed with her throughout her life. She told me once that she asked spirit to keep her looking youthful and in energy so she could better help others. She was a mentor and we were good friends. Her home in Ankeny was the most beautiful space and felt better than any home I've ever been in. Of course, her energy had a lot to do with that-but her art and the way she designed the space created an amazing energy. I always felt so peaceful after I spent time with her. She was very giving of her time and her gifts and that continued to the end. Whenever I visited her there was usually someone calling to ask for her assistance. She was always giving of herself and enjoyed helping others and enjoyed learning and growing herself. She worked with individuals and groups such as schools. Her impact on the world is immeasurable. I will remember one particular day when she drove to Ames to have lunch with Clancy and me at this incredible house I was house-sitting for. We had salmon and enjoyed her company. She will be in my thoughts often. I wrote her a gratitude letter when she still lived in Ankeny and I am thankful I did that. Thank you again Barbara for what you gave to this world and to me. See you again. Much Love. Karen Kellogg"

Sue wrote on Jan 3, 2019:

"Her smile, her energy - transcendence."

Lin Cornelison wrote on Jan 2, 2019:

"She was always giving of herself from her highest. Always. She taught me a lot. We talked a lot. She impacted my life greatly. She is missed. "

Kevin wrote on Dec 28, 2018:

"I have so many beautiful memories of sharing time with her. She taught me many things including her grace. Barbara was such a gift to our community always bringing new teachings to us. Her heart was full of love and her laugh was contagious. See you next time around..."

Launie Sorem wrote on Dec 26, 2018:

"Barbara was truly a joy in my life and the lives of many! Grateful for our many adventures. I imagine her riding horseback again. Launie Sorem"