Barbara LaRae Laven, a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, in Chanute with her loving husband, daughter and her husband and son by her side.
She was born in Sioux City, Iowa, survived polio in her early youth and became a competitive accordion player. This is also where she would meet her lifelong husband of 68 years. This was the generation of “American Pie,” the Jitter Bug and the king of rock and roll. They would soon embark on a journey together that would lead them to Southern California by way of military service. She soon would participate in a popular Hollywood show, “Queen for a Day” and go on to win her dream wedding. And later their first two children were born. Soon they would return to Iowa for a few years where the third child was born. Then it was back to California to be with family and sunshine. Soon a job opportunity in Arizona presented itself and they were on the move again. After a few years they would return to California all the while honing her skills as wife, mother and homemaker. She loved us and took excellent care of all of us. And she was a good cook, too. She provided all needed physical and mental nourishment and that of the soul as well. Beyond music she also had a love for painting figurines and was quite good at it. When the nest emptied, they got restless and headed for the wild western coast of Arizona where they would settle in for a few decades. The family would soon spread out, north, south, east and wes,t and grow in numbers, and they would spend summers in Montana for a number of years. Our parents’ home was always a safe refuge for family members dealing with life’s challenges. Weddings were happening, and she was there! Her grandchildren were her prize possession and she likewise was theirs! She gave freely and endlessly on their behalf providing love, support and encouragement. She was their biggest fan and defender. And then more weddings were happening and she was there! It wasn’t long and the great-grandchildren were growing in number. She welcomed and loved them with the same gusto. From Arizona the road led them to Kansas. The final stop, the final blow of the train whistle if you will! She gave us much, all, everything. I will miss her; we all will miss her. God blessed us with my mother. She cared, cried, laughed, sang and danced. She had a good adventure and is now resting in peace. May the “War Bird” and her “Black Magic Cake” live on as family legend in generations to come!
Cremation has taken place under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home and no service is scheduled at this time.
