Barbara Ann Kiesel

Barbara Ann Kmetz Kiesel, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and friend to many. Barbara passed away peacefully on February 12, 2026, in Joshua Tree. Born on July 26, 1947, in New York, Barbara Ann Kiesel’s life was a testament to love, care, and unwavering dedication. She will be deeply missed but forever treasured in the hearts of all who knew her.

Born to Stephen Kmetz and Dolores Rose Force, Barbara was their only daughter and cherished sibling to her brothers Stephen and Kenneth Kmetz. She was raised in Uniondale, New York, before moving to SmithTown, where her love of family, friends, and life flourished.

Barbara met the love of her life, Arthur Kiesel, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family in West Sayville Long Island New York. They raised five children-Donna, Cheryle, Douglas, Bonnie, and Nickolas and welcomed a sixth, Dolly, whom she affectionately called her "Doll." Her home in New York was filled with warmth, laughter, friends, and the love of her many dogs, which she loved grooming and breeding. She also delighted in cooking and sharing her talents with those around her.

Upon moving to Simi Valley, Barbara continued to pour her heart into her community as the beloved lunch lady for the school district, while still nurturing her passion for dogs. Alongside her children Doug and Dolly, she ran two successful companies, Charles Chips and Gourmet Goodies. Her love of the outdoors, gardening, bowling, and trips to Las Vegas with her older children brought her joy throughout her life.

Barbara's family was the center of her world. She adored her grandchildren —five in total-and fourteen great-grandchildren, sharing a particularly close bond with her granddaughter, Lillian.

She was full of life, a loving friend, a wonderful cook, and an exceptional dancer. She approached motherhood and grandmotherhood with unmatched devotion, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Barbara's warmth, energy, and unconditional love will be deeply missed, but her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends.

She is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Life to honor Barbara’s memory will be held on April 12, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the Rose Family Funeral Home & Cremation, located at 4444 Cochran St, Simi Valley, CA 93063. Friends and family are invited to gather and share stories, laughter, and tears as they remember a woman who gave so much to those around her.