Obituary for Barbara L. Melster

Barbara L. Melster, 89, of West Salem and formerly of Racine passed away March 24, 2025, at Hearten House in La Crosse. She was born April 8, 1935, in Racine to Peter and Mildred (Gratz) St. Martin. Barbara grew up in Racine and was a proud graduate of St. Catherine’s High School. On May 18, 1957, she married Edward Melster and St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Racine. Barbara enjoyed bingo, casino trips with her friend Sharon Furber, bowling, and bus trips. She loved all pets and animals, especially her favorite cat, Taylor. Survivors include her children, Julee Melster (Mike Crawford) of Tomah, Ken (Carol) Melster of Menomonee Falls, and Janet (Brett) Wynia of Rushford; three grandchildren, Adam (Arcadia) Melster, Eric (Taylor) Melster, and Victoria Kjome; two great-grandchildren, Asa and Addison Melster; sisters, Lois (Jim) Hunter and Sandy Verken; and numerous nieces and nephews. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ed; her brother, Richard (Barbara Ann); sister, Sharon; and her sister-in-law, Vivian (Edgar) Hendricks. A graveside service will be held at 2:00 p.m., on Friday, April 4, 2025, in Neshonoc Cemetery in West Salem. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the La Crescent Animal Rescue, https://www.lacrescentanimalrescue.com/donate or Paws of War https://www.pawsofwar.org/donate