Barbara Jean Lovstuen

Barbara Jean Lovstuen, age 72, of Albia, IA, passed away on Saturday, October 15, 2022, at her home, surrounded by her loved ones, under the care of Care Initiatives Hospice. Barb was born on September 15, 1950, at the Albia Hospital to Joseph Sr. and Marjorie (Phillips) Nucko. She grew up attending school in Albia and graduated with the class of 1968. On June 8, 1974, she was united in marriage to Kenny Lovstuen in Decorah, IA. Barb and Kenny shared 48 years of marriage prior to her passing. Barb worked as a nurse’s aide at the Albia Hospital and later at the Monroe County Hospital as the activity director. She was the Regional Director for Contempo Fashion for many years. She also owned and operated Memory Lane Antiques and tea room. Barb was very talented and crocheted blankets for all of her grandchildren, whom she adored. She was an excellent baker and enjoyed baking cookies of all kinds, making each of her grandchildren’s favorites, as well as delicious fudge that her children recall eating along with popcorn and apples on Sunday nights while watching Disney movies. She enjoyed playing card games of all kinds with her family and friends, as well as flower and vegetable gardening. She loved root beer barrels. Barb’s true joy in life was spending time with her family and she cherished all of the time she spent with them. Barb is survived by her husband, Kenny Lovstuen; her children, Doug (Christy) Lovstuen, Jenny (Brandon) Denton, Brenda (Tim) Butler, and Heather (Dayle) Moeller; 14 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren and 1 on the way; and her siblings, Pat (Joe) Angran and Eleanor (Richard) Hatfield. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph Sr. and Marjorie Nucko and her brother, Joseph Nucko Jr. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Barb’s family present to greet family and friends. Per Barb’s wishes, her family requests that those in attendance dress casually. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, October 22, 2022, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Pastor Terry Chapman officiating. A private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, an open memorial has been established to be determined at a later time.

Barbara Jean Lovstuen

September 15, 1950 - October 15, 2022