Barbara Jean Ingram

After being a stay-at-home mother for many years, Barb decided it was time to further her education. Shortly after finishing her degree, she landed her dream job at Bay College where she was the secretary to the Dean of Liberal Arts, happily retiring after 22 years. She loved every second of working at the college, especially alongside her first boss and mentor, Dr. Lynn Lindeman. In 2015, she was selected for one of the Outstanding Staff Awards, which meant the world to her.

In 1998, while working at the college, Barb also became the co-owner of 4 J’s Family Restaurant, where she primarily took care of all the administrative and bookkeeping duties. The restaurant was sold in 2017, however, the passion for the food industry continued when she helped her daughter purchase The Dewdrop Family Restaurant. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time at The Dewdrop mingling with the customers and heckling the employees (in a fun and humorous way).

One of Barb’s greatest joys in life was being a grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and enjoyed every second she got to spend with them doing crafts, coloring, and playing games. She also had the amazing ability to put together the most thoughtful, and sometimes hilarious gifts for her family. Her sense of humor was truly the best!

In her spare time, Barb enjoyed frequenting the casino, playing card games, watching the Packers, and listening to all genres of music, especially live music. She even had a signature dance move that we’ll always cherish.

Barb is survived by her daughters from her first marriage to Jerry Ketcham, Amy Ketcham, Amanda Phillips, and Kimberly (Shawn) Thompson; her best friend and life partner, Gary Ingram; stepchildren, Jarred (Tamara) Ingram, Justin Ingram, and Charlene (Rob) Thiede, along with her beloved grandchildren, Jacob and Landon Phillips and Lily and Ethan Thompson. She’s also survived by her siblings, Thomas Mackie, Patricia Goes, and Sandy Bero.

She is preceded in death by her beloved dog, Buddy, her parents, and siblings William (Popeye),Courtney, Audrey, Carolyn, Kathleen, and Mary.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, February 22, at Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone from 2 to 4 p.m. with a short service following. A celebration of life and luncheon will follow at The Dewdrop Family Restaurant from 5 to 7 p.m.

Barb’s daughters would also like to extend a special thank you to their father and stepmother, Jerry and Vivian Ketcham, for their unconditional love and support during this difficult time.

In place of flowers, memorial contributions in Barb’s name may be directed to the Delta County Cancer Society or the Delta Animal Shelter.