Barbara Rae (Armes) Keyes, 53, Waterford, died April 18, 2012, at home with family by her side.
She was born in Waterford on Aug. 30, 1958, to Ray Armes and the late Donna (Burns) Armes.
She graduated from Waterford Union High School in 1976 and in 1978 married Perry N. Keyes and had three children. For many years she and Perry operated Green Meadows Farm, not only in Waterford but also the Elmhurst, Ill., program every October. They bought their own farm in 1984 and started Maple Valley Farm horse boarding stable. From its meager beginnings it has grown and flourished into the well-established business it is today. Her passion was horses and she competed in shows, barrel racing, Team Penning, the Circus Parade and Competitive Mounted Orienteering. Barb was intensely involved with the Waterford FFA Alumni, helping out in an extraordinary way and for years ran the food booth at the Racine County Fair.
One of her dreams come true was becoming a Vet Tech for Kettle Moraine Equine Hospital, where she worked for many years. She was an amazing asset to their veterinary staff.
Besides horses, her hobbies include basket weaving and she was an avid reader. The birth of her first grandchild gave her an added sparkle and she was blessed with a second just last year. She took great pride in being a grandmother and adored her two little ones. Barb has deeply touched so many lives and was able to connect with a diverse group of people. She possessed a spirit beyond comprehension, always positive, always with a smile to share. She was a most special lady who will truly be missed and always remembered.
Survivors include her husband; children, Andy (Cat), Keri and Lori; grandchildren, Raelyn and Oliver; her father; uncle and aunt, George (Marilyn) Burns; loving and forever faithful canine companion, Ruby; Quarter horse, Jade; other relatives and numerous friends.
A Celebration of Life is Saturday, April 28, at Green Meadows Farm, 33603 High Drive (Hwy. 20) East Troy. Guests should arrive at 11 a.m., to sign register book and be seated for Prayer and Remembrance Services at noon. As per Barb’s wishes, family asks that you wear casual clothing to the services. Immediately following services, a luncheon will be served, along with music and sharing of memories. It will be a time to visit with all family members and friends.
In lieu of floral expressions of sympathy, memorials are suggested to the family, which will be distributed to Barb’s favorite charities including Waterford FFA Alumni and Wisconsin Breast Cancer Recovery.
Mealy Funeral Home, Waterford, is assisting the family.
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