Barbara An Kelln

Surrounded by family and God’s peace, Barbara Ann Kelln (Jensen) was welcomed into eternal life on January 30, 2026.

Barbara was born on January 20, 1939, in Bellingham, Washington, to Helen and Melvin Jensen. She was raised in Custer, Washington, and graduated from Ferndale High School in 1957. After high school, she attended secretarial school and worked as a secretary at Ferndale High School. In 1960, she married Leroy Kelln, and together they moved to Seattle, where Barbara worked for the FBI for a couple years. In 1962, they returned to Whatcom County and opened a floral shop in Lynden called Jansen’s Floral. Soon after, they began their family and welcomed three children: Brad, Karla, and Brent.

Barbara was a devoted mother and grandmother whose life was built on love, faith, and devotion to family. Her family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into caring for those she loved. She was known as the best pie maker and delighted in bringing pies to every family gathering. Barbara cherished time spent with her family: reading stories to the children; hosting tea parties; playing games; etc. Simply being together brought her genuine happiness. In her earlier years, Barbara was actively involved in her church. Her faith guided her life and brought her peace. She also enjoyed sewing, doing puzzles, taking drives to Birch Bay, and attending lunches with old high school classmates. The memories she created will be treasured by all who loved her.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Kelln, and her parents, Melvin and Helen Jensen. She is survived by her three children and their spouses: Brad and Kristen, Karla and Jay, and Brent and Shauna; her seven grandchildren: Tore and Finn, Luke and Lauren, Talena, Connor, and Landon; and her four great-grandchildren: Hadley, Colt, Piper, and Harper. She is also survived by her two brothers, Clary and Les.

Barbara will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who were blessed to know her. While our hearts mourn her loss, we find comfort in knowing she is now at peace in Heaven.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held on February 27 at 1:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Custer. Memorials may be made to Zion Lutheran Church.