Barbara Jean (Gooch) Cessna

Barbara Jean Cessna, 80, of Lake Bruce, passed away at 7:10 a.m., Thursday, December 6, 2012 at Hickory Creek of Rochester. Born February 18, 1932 in Kokomo, she was the daughter of the late William E. 'Joe' and Mae (Delong) Gooch. On April 14, 1951, she married William A. 'Bill' Cessna and he preceded her in death April 10, 2003. During her life time, Barb had many 'careers'. She was a homemaker and farm wife, licensed pilot, business woman, swim coach and a croquet master. She enjoyed gardening, reading and 'picking' antiques. Barb had a love of all animals and enjoyed caring for them and being outdoors. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and a good friend and confidant to many. Barb had also formerly worked at Kewanna Metal Specialties for 13 years. She was also a former member of the Rochester Order of Eastern Star. Survivors include her daughters, Deborah L. Cessna of West Lafayette, Kim J. Bowsher and husband, Bruce of Rochester and Barbara Jan Bruce and husband, Tim of Remington. She is also survived by grandchildren Laurie Birchmeier and husband Kevin of Plymouth, Meghan Hazlett of Phoenix, Arizona, Amanda Hazlett of Argos, Kaleb Hazlett of Rochester, Josh Bruce of Chicago and Sarah Bruce of Remington and 2 great grandchildren, Lilly Gerald and Wesley Gerald of Argos. She was also preceded in death by daughter, Denise Ann Cessna. Services will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, December 8, 2012 at Harrison-Metzger & Rans Funeral Home, Kewanna Chapel with Chaplain Jason See officiating. Visitation will be from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Rochester IOOF Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the National Wildlife Federation and/or the Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Online condolences and personal remembrances may be made to the Cessna family at www.harrisonmetzger.com