Barbara “Barb” Jean Hosch

Barbara Jean Hosch

(Née Oldenburg)

October 12, 1946 – September 16, 2025

Barbara “Barb” Hosch, age 78, of Muskego, WI, passed away peacefully, surrounded by loving family on September 16, 2025, after a courageous battle with multiple sclerosis.

Born in Racine,WI on October 12, 1946, Barb was the beloved daughter of the late Kenneth and Ruth (Keller) Oldenburg. She was a graduate of William Horlick High School class of 1964 and went on to build a dedicated 39-year career as a cost accountant at Oilgear Manufacturing.

On October 2, 1965, Barb married her devoted husband and love of her life, Robert “Bob”  Hosch at Holy Communion Lutheran Church in Racine, WI,  and together they shared nearly 60 wonderful years. They enjoyed bowling, game nights with friends, and spending summer vacations in St. Germain, WI, a place close to their hearts.

She also found great happiness in the simple, meaningful moments spent with those she loved most. Time with her daughter Joanne, her son-in-law John, and her grandsons Matt and Nick brought her the deepest joy, and she treasured every visit, every laugh, and every hug.

In 1991, Barb and Bob moved to Wind Lake, WI where they spent 32 years enjoying the peace and beauty of their one-acre backyard filled with wildlife. Barb had a deep love for Shelties, and she devoted much of her life to raising numerous litters of these wonderful puppies. She loved going to dog shows and her dedication to grooming and training paid off when one of her Shelties became an AKC champion. Her home was always warmed by the companionship of her beloved dogs, and she delighted in their playful energy and quiet devotion. Her passion for her Shelties was truly inspiring and a testament to her gentle and caring nature.

She is survived by her loving husband, Bob Hosch; daughter, Joanne Herrmann (John); and grandchildren, Matthew Herrmann and Nicholas Herrmann. She is also survived by her sisters, Karin Roberson (the late James) and Jan Krause (Rich).

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Ruth Oldenburg, and her sister-in-law, Mary Jo (Hosch) Hoppe (the late James).

Barb faced her illness with extraordinary strength and grace, showing everyone around her what true courage looks like. Despite the challenges, she embraced life fully and never lost her warm spirit or her love of laughter.

Barb will be remembered for her quiet strength, loving spirit, and the grace and courage with which she lived. Her resilience in the face of MS was a source of inspiration to all who knew her.

Barb’s life reminds us all to live with love, courage, and joy. Though she is no longer with us, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those she loved.

Memorial Gathering will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin, from 11:00 AM to 12:45 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

To send flowers to the family or place a tree in memory of Barbara "Barb" Jean Hosch, please visit our Tribute Store.