Barbara J. Landua, Kaukauna, age 58, died at her home, surrounded by her family, on Monday, October 11, 2021. She was born in Kaukauna on September 15, 1963, the daughter of Jerry and Mary (Ebben) Gehl. Barbara married Lee Landua in a double wedding, with Barb's sister Julie and Lee's brother Todd, on April 9, 1991, in Montego Bay, Jamaica. She earned an Associate Degree in Accounting and worked as an administrative assistant at General Beverage.

Barb was so strong. She fought so hard and endured so much these past six months. It was a truly inspiring journey to anyone who saw it. She was beautiful, smart, and talented. She had the potential to do anything she wanted, but she used her energy to make everyone else's life better. She was a rock for so many people, especially when they needed it the most. Even in her final days, she was going out of her way to help others and make sure they were taken care of. Anyone who knew her would tell you she was the most caring person.  Her impact was so much bigger than her approach; she was like a butterfly who could leave a giant's footprint-- she would come to you with gentle care and quiet check-ins, and leave you feeling completely loved, comforted, and cared for… and leave you with a bag of chocolate chip cookies. One of the countless ways she showed her love was through her food, which she'd humbly describe as "just following the recipe". But it wasn't just that. It might sound cliché, but she cooked with love, and it showed.  She made the best food. Her cookies were famous, and her cooking was just a little taste of the magic she added to this world.

When she wasn't giving herself to take care of someone else, she was usually on a walk, immersing herself in nature. And if you were going on a walk with her, you better have prepared yourself to keep up, because she wasn't slowing down for you. She had one speed and she meant business. Whether it was walks around the city, hikes in northern Wisconsin, or traversing waterfalls and hot springs during hailstorms in Iceland, she loved being outdoors and getting fresh air. She showed up her fishing family by being the only one to catch a musky, but also was content being on the lake when things went quiet, taking in the serenity of the Northwoods.

She was just a sweet and gentle soul. She was so loved, and she exuded so much love. She made everyone feel included. She was happy for others, celebrated their accomplishments, rooted for those who deserved it, and made sure others knew how impressive their talents were. She had the best sense of humor, even though she never seemed to quite get her husband Lee's jokes… She was quiet, but tough. She was an amazing mother, present, protective, and encouraging. She was an incredible wife, loving, patient, and supportive. She was a caring sister, a heartfelt daughter, a warm aunt, and a passionate grandmother.  Simply put, she was the best. She meant so much to those who were lucky enough to know her, and she will be missed so, so much. In a word, she was irreplaceable, but she wouldn't want us to dwell on the sadness. So, if you want to honor Barb, get outside, take a walk, keep your sense of humor, and if you want to try baking, then remember—just follow the recipe. Her recipe in life, above all else, was to spread kindness, love, and compassion, and that's how she'll be remembered. She was an angel whom we were lucky enough to borrow. We will love her forever.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 30 years, Lee; sons: Travis (Jessica) of Combined Locks and Phil (Kelsey) of Chicago; grandchildren: Blair and Brody; parents, Jerry and Mary Gehl; siblings: Lori (Joe) Vanden Oever, Joan (Dan) Bruecker, Julie (Todd) Landua, Lynn (Dan) Miller, and Nikki (Paul) Flanagan; and brothers and sisters-in-law: Guy (Sandy) Landua, Kim (Mark) Helms, Kay (Rick) Chadwick, Jay (Melissa) Landua, Todd (Julie) Landua, Amy (Chuck) Putzer, and Rick Menting. She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by Lee's parents, Ruth (Leo) Treleven and Don Landua; and sister-in-law, Gidget Menting.

A celebration of life will be held November 13, 2021 at VAN ABEL'S OF HOLLANDTOWN (8108 County Road D, Kaukauna) from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established.