Barbara Therese Novotny, of Traer, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the age of 95. Her long and meaningful life was defined by warmth, devotion, and a lifelong pursuit of beauty—in her work, her faith, and the relationships she cherished.

Barbara was born on June 14, 1931, to Frank A. and Emily (Martinek) Novotny on their beloved family farm in rural Tama County.

She attended Traer High School, graduating with the Class of 1949. Soon after, Barbara embarked on her professional journey at Farmers Savings Bank in Traer, where she worked diligently until 1958. Yet during her teenage years, it was the hours spent assisting a family friend in the cultivation and exhibition of flowers that truly awakened her enthusiasm and sense of purpose.

This blossoming passion for flowers inspired a bold change. In 1958, Barbara made the heartfelt decision to leave her banking career and enroll at the prestigious American Floral Art School of Chicago. There, she immersed herself in the art and craft of floral arranging and design—a pursuit that brought her great joy. Upon completing her courses, Barbara returned home and fulfilled a dream: she opened her own flower shop and greenhouse. For the following 20 years, she poured her creativity, expertise, and soul into cultivating vibrant blossoms and sharing them with the community she loved.

After retiring, Barbara’s days remained rich and full. She found profound happiness working in her personal flower gardens, nurturing life and color in every season. Travel, painting, and other hobbies also filled her retirement years, each one pursued with the enthusiasm and grace that those who knew her will always remember.

A lifelong and devoted member of St. Paul Catholic Church in Traer, Barbara wove faith and service into the fabric of her life. She began attending and serving at an early age, and later shared her wisdom as a CCD teacher for many years. Her commitment to her parish extended further: Barbara was elected to the Parish Council, and her thoughtful perspective helped guide several important building committees. Her faith was evident in every act of kindness, her quiet commitment making a lasting impact among parishioners and friends alike.

Barbara’s life was touched by loss as well as joy. She was preceded in death by her parents, her grandparents, and a brother, Edward, who passed away in infancy. Though her immediate family circle grew smaller over the years, Barbara’s heart was vast and generous. She is survived by her dear friends RaeLynn and Kurt Ketter, and by a wide, loving circle of treasured friends—each enriched by her sincerity, her gentle humor, and her open-hearted companionship.

Barbara will be deeply missed, her enduring legacy blooming in the gardens she tended, the faith community she uplifted, and the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.