Obituaries : Barbara Ann Pettie

Barbara Ann Pettie, age 70, passed away on December 25, 2025. Born on September 8, 1955, in Belle Plaine, Iowa, at Cornbelt Hospital, Barb lived a life defined by generosity, steadfast love, and an unwavering belief that everyone belonged.

Barb’s home, and her heart, were always open. She loved unconditionally and without hesitation, welcoming people and animals alike: family, friends, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, former partners, dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and anyone else who needed a place of safety and acceptance. She had a quiet strength and a gentle defiance when it came to protecting the people she loved. Those who knew her will remember her warm smile, her blunt honesty when it mattered most, and her deep sense of fairness.

In a time when belonging is often questioned, Barb embodied values that were both timeless and deeply rooted in the heartland—kindness, loyalty, and the firm belief that love makes a family. She never asked anyone to explain themselves before offering care. She simply loved.

Barb will be remembered for the way she made people feel seen, accepted, and at home. Though her passing leaves a profound absence, those who loved her will find comfort in the memories she created and the example she set through a life lived with compassion.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Violet Shellenberger; her son, Casey McFatridge; her brother, Tommy Shellenberger; and her niece, Melissa Bartlett.

She is survived by her husband, Calvin Pettie; her children, Travis Pierce, Josh Pierce (Susan), and Leslie Pettie; her grandchildren, Lane Pierce, Kaylee Pierce, and Preston Pierce; and her great-grandchild, Paisley Pierce. She is also survived by her sister, Kathy Cornelis (Richard); her brother, Jeff Shellenberger; and extended family including John Bartlett and his children, Behre and Zack.

Visitation is 1-3 p.m. Friday, January 2, 2026 at Hrabak-Neuhaus Funeral Service, Belle Plaine, IA. With burial to follow at International Cemetery in Luzerne, IA. In lieu of flowers or monetary gifts, donations may be made in Barb’s memory to Safe Haven of Iowa County. Donations can be made online at: https://www.wesavepets.com

Barb’s legacy lives on in every life she touched and every heart she welcomed. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.