Barbara Ann Klein

Barbara Ann Lind Klein went home to Heaven on Monday, February 21st 2022.  Just before her passing, her four children and family surrounded her with love, stories of beautiful memories and prayers. Mom was raised in Los Angeles, CA and met our Dad in Glendale, in a Scuba Diving class. They married and raised their four kids in Irvine, CA. The following is from each of her kids:

Oldest child, her son David Christopher Klein, engaged to Suzie Girard and they have a son, Zach (8):

My Mom was one of the kindest, most loving and positive individuals I have ever had the pleasure of knowing.  Her love was unconditional for her children.  Throughout the years we all had plenty of opportunities to test this love.  She was unfailing with her deep and loving smile, her cheerful eyes and her positive demeanor.  I saw someone once post about bad words they had heard their mothers say....I had to reply honestly....there weren't any.

My Mothers passion was her family.  No matter the place, if family was there that was where she wanted to be.  Given time to herself she was happy around the house tending to her Rose Garden and listening to her classics.  She wasn't necessarily a traveler but given the challenge she was up to it.  Imagine moving to Germany with 4 kids, no internet, no cell phones.  She was tough!  Like the no Cry kind of tough!  She didn't have time for that....only love.  RIP Mom!

Second oldest child and daughter, Carin Noelle Klein Pruett, married to Craig Pruett and they have 3 kids: Cameron (19), Deanna (20) and Ashley, who is married to Wesley Holland and they have a son, Benjamin (2):

Mom was the picture of grace under fire.  How did she raise four crazy kids, move to Europe with us, take us on extended travel - often by herself?  She made it look easy.  Our house was always the hotspot for friends and mom welcomed them.  Our house was loud!

I often reflect on the rich life we were given by her and dad.  Camping, skiing, hiking, my horse:)  But I felt mom's influence and friendship when I was older.  Some of our best conversations were when we were knee deep in dirt, planting and gardening.  We share a love of rose bushes and tomatoes.  And of course horses!  I always carry a picture of her riding Thor, with me on Jinx, Cam behind me, and Deanna on Dude.  LOVE that memory.

She faced some of the most devastating experiences someone can, but she didn't let that take away her smile and generosity.  She was always willing to help; wanted to help.  She maintained her faith, her positivity, and her joy.  She was loved wherever she went.  I miss her deeply but I know she is in heaven, dancing to her 50's music, and spreading her happiness.

Middle daughter, Brenda Ann Klein Ochsner, married to Eric Ochsner and they have 2 daughters, Lila (11) and Violet (8):

Mom was a unique person; there was truly no one in the world like her. My mom was a very selfless person and found the good in everything and everyone.  She never had a bad word to say, ever. She lived her life serving others.  She loved her kids, her Catholic faith, her dogs, her kitty Blackie, camping, gardening, and most of all, being with her family. Her greatest pleasure in life was her 9 grandkids and 2 great grandbabies. I loved being a Mom and connecting with her about that. I loved having tea with her and talking about our faith and our lives. Both of our parents came from challenging backgrounds, but somehow she and my Dad created a life for us kids that was filled with international travels, camping trips to every state park, memorable events with their square dancing club, the Church Mice, lifelong friendships and more. They supported each of us kids and all our sports and passions. It was so obvious how much peace my Mom had in her final days…in my last moments with her, she had a glow and looked like an Angel; and now she is one. 

Youngest daughter, Amy Louise Klein Hayes, married to David Hayes and they have 3 kids, Emily (24), Morgann (21) and Greg (18):

Mom was a genuine person. She was true to herself. Best mom ever! My mom was calm. No drama. Just her. She didn’t conform to anyone. Mom was peace, no matter what was going on. She loved us and everyone unconditionally.

Mom filled out a book for me (my kids) with a ton of questions starting at her birth, growing up, her parents, meeting dad, and so on. One of the questions asked, "What advice would you have for me?" This is what mom wrote "Always keep God in your heart. He loves you very much. Keep smiling, forgive others and never hold a grudge - it hurts you more than them. Have respect for yourself and others. Be careful of gossip, it can come back to you. Be happy and help others". Does that not just sound like mom?!

For all those blessed to know our Mom; Barbara, Barbie Mamason, Barbski, Sister, CCD teacher, friend, 2nd Mom, Grandma, G’ma….they were always in the presence of a truly good person.  Now she is able to absorb all she gave, and enjoy the true peace and love that she shared with the world.  She was so loved and will be so missed.

No services will be held at this time. The family will hold a private ceremony later this summer.

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