MAINEN, Barbara K

Barbara Karl Mainen, 80, of Andover, Massachusetts, passed away the morning of April 17, 2024.

Barbara was born on May 30, 1943 to Stanley and Rose Karl in Sioux City, Iowa. After graduating from Central High School (aka Castle on the Hill), Barbara went on to the University of Iowa and graduated with a degree in dental hygiene. One highlight of her career as a hygienist was a one-day assisting her brother, Dr. Edward Karl, on a dental procedure for their mother. Friends of their mother later said what a cheap procedure it was, to which she replied that it wasn’t cheap at all, since she paid for their education.

While at the University of Iowa, Barbara met Eugene Mainen, who was pursuing his PhD in chemistry. Married in 1966, Barbara and Gene relocated to Minnetonka, Minnesota and went on to have two children, David and Sarah. The family moved to Old Bennington, Vermont in 1983, and settled in Andover, Massachusetts in 1984.

Even while successfully battling breast cancer, Barbara stayed very active. She absolutely loved to play bridge, completed multiple Danskin sprint triathlons, participated in fundraiser runs, and loved every step of her walks with Sarah and her granddog, Freyja. Barbara enjoyed working at the Town of Andover’s Senior Center, and was a valued member of the Council on Aging.

Barbara was predeceased by her parents, Stan and Rose, and her husband, Gene. She is survived by her son and daughter, David and Sarah, four grandchildren, her brother, Ed, and his wife, Tobye and their two children, Kimberly and Jonathan, Barbara’s niece and nephew. Barbara will also be missed dearly by her three cousins, Margie, Julie, and Carol, and their beautiful families.

A small family Service will be held on April 18, 2024. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Barbara’s memorial fund at The American Cancer Society. https:// raiseyourway.donordrive.com/ campaign/Barbara-Mainen