Barbara Marie Kaelin, a beloved daughter, sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend, peacefully passed away on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at the age of eighty-two. Born on August 15, 1942, in the city of St. Louis, Missouri. Barbara’s life was a testament to faith, family, conversation and driving. At the time of her passing, she was a resident of Autumn View Gardens, an assisted living facility. Barbara’s journey was deeply rooted in her Catholic faith. She was a devoted daughter of Dr. Harold and Lucille Maher, who predeceased her, and a sister to Dr. Roger Maher (Linda-wife and extended family) and Dr. Mark Maher, who predeceased her, (Pam-wife and extended family). On June 1, 1968, she married the love of her life, Vincent Leo Kaelin, who predeceased her 26 years ago on June 1, 1999. Their marriage had been a beautiful partnership that was blessed with four wonderful children: Colleen Swank (Kevin-husband, Tyler-grandson, Samantha – granddaughter {Alexandra-wife}), Stephanie Neuhaus (Mike-husband and extended family), Laura Kaelin, and Michael Kaelin (Sarah-wife, Elizabeth-granddaughter, and Matthew-grandson). Known for her gift of gab, Barbara could talk and talk. She also spent her time driving around St. Louis, mostly to care for her special needs daughter, Laura. She was incredibly proud of her children, especially Laura. She cherished every moment spent with her family, friends, and community.
Services: The family invites you to celebrate Barbara’s life at the visitation, which will be held at Kutis Funeral Home (10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis, MO 63123) on Monday, June 23, 2025, from 4 to 8 PM. A Mass in her honor will take place at St. Joseph Church (567 St. Joseph Lane, Manchester, MO 63021) on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 9:15 AM, followed by her internment at Jefferson Barracks (2900 Sheridan Road, St. Louis, MO 63125) at 11 AM. She will be laid to rest next to her husband, Vincent Leo Kaelin, at Plot: ZZ 0 171. In these gatherings, we will remember her. As we bid farewell to Barbara, we find comfort in the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1-2: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die.” Barbara’s time with us was a season filled with love and faith. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched.
I was so sorry to read of Barb’s passing. We were neighbors all through high school, and had talked often before she left for Autumn View Gardens. Still the same chatty self–just like old times. I’m so glad we got to “meet up again” after so many years via the telephone. Picked up where we left off, had great laughs. I believe God allowed me to goodbye without me knowing it. Till we meet again, dear friend.
I was so sorry to hear of Barb’s passing. I would have been at the funeral but I have a broken arm and no ride. So I am saying a rosary for her today and will keep your family in my prayers. She was very proud of all of you and she will be missed.