Barva Faires, 85, of Remsen, Iowa, formerly of Le Mars, Iowa, passed away on Monday, October 31, 2022, at Happy Siesta Care Center in Remsen, Iowa. Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to St. Croix Hospice or Happy Siesta Care Center.


Barva Betty Jean Faires was born on December 9, 1936, in Florence, Alabama, the daughter of William Floyd and Bessie (Melton) Faires. She was raised in Le Mars, Iowa where she graduated from high school in 1955. Barva married Alfert O. Ludwigs, Sr. and they made their first home in Le Mars. They later moved throughout the country for work opportunities. Along with caring for her family, Barva worked in home health care. Barva and Alfert were later divorced.

In 2009, Barva moved to Le Mars to be closer to her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Todd Pry. She became a resident at Happy Siesta Care Center in Remsen on October 19, 2009. Barva enjoyed singing, drawing and painting. Barva loved her family and friends. She greeted everyone with a bright smile and a wave. She found comfort in reciting the Rosary before bed.

She is survived by her children, Christy Ludwigs of Huxley, IA, Joy (Bruce) Martin of Anacoco, LA, Linda (Todd) Pry of Le Mars, IA, Sharon (Stephan) Grant of Ramona, CA, John (Sheri) Ludwigs of Dallas, TX, James Ludwigs of Le Mars, IA and Faith Ludwigs of Mankato, MN; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Barva was preceded in death by her parents; children, Alfert Ludwigs, Jr., Amy Schmidt and Grace Ludwigs; a sister, Lorraine Klemmensen; and a brother, David Faires.