Barbara Ann Mitten (Née Bakic), age 76, passed away peacefully on October 27, 2019 after a long and courageous battle against Parkinson’s Disease.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 52 years, Patrick Mitten. Beloved Mom to Michael (Cathi), Katie and David (Mary). Adoring Grandma to Kayla, Nyrie, William and Ann Marie. Doting Great Grandma to Emma Ann. Cherished Aunt to Cara, Sara, Jake and Rob. Admired Big Sister to Bob (Evie). Also loved by other relatives and friends.
Barbara is a graduate of Pius XI High School in Milwaukee, WI where she met her husband Pat when he asked her to prom. After high school, Barb pursued her passion for teaching at Alverno College and earned her undergraduate degree, later receiving her master’s degree in Elementary Education. Her love of teaching extended far beyond the classroom and truly set the tone for her life as she shared her fervor and inspired many students, family and friends to follow in her footsteps. Barb took great pride in sharing her love of books and reading with her students. She taught in the Brown Deer School District for many years and earned Teacher of the Year during her career there.
Barbara was honored to be the matriarch of the Mitten and Bakic clan and took her role very seriously. Family, especially her husband and children, were always her top priority and she made lifelong friends wherever she went. She had a smile that lit up even the darkest day and was known for her kindness, compassion, and selflessness.
Barb enjoyed helping and giving to others and sharing her love and zeal for life with everyone she knew. While her journey with Parkinson’s Disease was difficult and long, Barb exhibited strength and perseverance. She never allowed it to steal an ounce of the joy she had in her heart.
Barb was blessed with an amazing husband. She and Pat were in love every moment of their 52 years together and their marriage and deep love was a shining example to so many. Patrick was the most dedicated caregiver to Barbara, tirelessly ensuring she was given the highest level of support and care throughout the progression of her disease. During the last four years of her life, Pat provided diligent and loving care 24/7 to his wife so she could remain at home, never once complaining.
Barbara Ann will forever be remembered by her loved ones as a pillar of strength, kindness and grace. We are grateful for the strong example she set in every aspect of her life and for the countless wonderful memories we have with her. She will be deeply missed, and her legacy will live on forever.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be prayed at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at Stella Maris Parish – Fish Creek site with Fr. Jerry Pastors as celebrant. Burial will be at Blossomberg Cemetery. Visitation for family and friends will be from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.
Huehns Funeral Home is assisting the Mitten family. Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Barbara may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.HuehnsFuneralHome.com.
