Barbara Pond Premo

Barbara Pond Premo, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on December 5, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on November 17, 1935, Barbara lived a life filled with love, generosity, and an unwavering devotion to her family and community.

Barbara grew up in West Salem, Wisconsin, the daughter of Norman and Maude Rowe. From an early age, she displayed a gift for generosity and hospitality—qualities that would define her for decades to come.

She graduated from Stout State College in 1957 with a degree in home economics education. She was a proud member of the Pallas Athene Sorority, later affiliated with Alpha Phi. Barbara was a passionate educator throughout her life, sharing her knowledge, kindness, and steady presence with generations of students. She continued her career well into her 70s as a substitute teacher in the Sun Prairie School District.

In 1955, Barbara married Darrel Premo, with whom she shared many years and raised six children: Renee Schwinefus (Jeff), Michael Premo (Kim), Dannie Jaeger (Pete), Mark Premo (Kristin), Mathew Premo (Katie), and Michelle Johnson (Ken), who preceded her in death. Her children, eighteen grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren were the joy of her life. She delighted in celebrating milestones, holidays, sporting events, and everyday moments with them.

Barbara’s home was always open to friends and family. She loved entertaining—whether hosting holiday gatherings, preparing favorite recipes, or cheering on her favorite college teams, the Badgers and the Huskers. A talented seamstress, she poured her artistry into every garment she crafted, creating beautiful and personal pieces for those she loved.

Beyond her family, Barbara dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her community in countless ways. She volunteered at Olbrich Botanical Gardens and was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church in Madison. She found immense joy in giving her time and talents to others, and her kindness, generosity, and forgiving spirit touched everyone who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Michelle, her former husband Darrel, her parents, and her siblings. Though she is no longer with us, Barbara’s legacy endures in the love she gave so freely, the traditions she created and nurtured, and the example she set of a life led by kindness, generosity, and purpose.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a place that beautifully reflects Barbara’s lifelong love of flowers and nature.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Christ Presbyterian Church in Madison, followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be offered immediately after the service. Barbara’s cremains will be laid to rest during a spring burial at Neshonoc Cemetery in West Salem, Wisconsin.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road, Madison

(608) 238-3434