Barbara Jean Wetzel

Barbara Jean Wetzel, age 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at Valley View Village in Des Moines.

Barbara was born September 9, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa to Jack and Caroline (Myers) Davidson. She graduated from East High School in Des Moines in 1969, and went on to earn her Master’s degree from Upper Iowa University.

She retired from UPS after many years of faithful service. She was the Loaned Executive from UPS to United Way, which she loved participating in, and was especially happy to have been a part of designing trees for the Festival of Trees.

Barbara was the owner of Ivy Corner Quilting and made many beautiful quilts. She was a member of Oakwood United Methodist Church in Pleasant Hill, and enjoyed taking cruises.

She is survived by her husband of 33 years, John Wetzel; children, Amanda (Kyle) Jones, Jayme (Dustin) Fisher, and Brad Smith; grandchildren, Maelle Smith, Zeb Smith, Gavin Jones, Gage Fisher, and Jase Fisher; sister, Kathy (Scott Slater) Davidson; brother, Ed (Bonnie) Davidson; as well as many extended family and friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Caroline Davidson; brothers, Tom Davidson and Don Davidson; sisters, Karen Phillips, Delores Stuve, Mary Davidson, and Cheryl Wheeler; and her mother-in-law, Donna Wetzel.

A private burial has occurred at Laurel Hill Cemetery in Des Moines. A celebration of life will be held at Oakwood United Methodist Church, 400 NE 56th Street, Pleasant Hill on May 25, 2024, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association in loving memory of Barbara.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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