Barbara Priem

Barb Priem of Madison died peacefully in her sleep at her home on Sunday Sept. 7, 2026. Barb was born to Phyllis and Bennie Priem in Madison on Nov. 30, 1954.

Barb was supported by Goodwill Ind and worked at Pick n Save for many years. When Barb was no longer able to work, Art became one of her great joys. She created “Priems Dreams” through the non-profit Artworking, that offers support for artists with disabilities. In Barb’s words ”Art makes me feel like I’m doing something good for other people.” Barb also took classes at “Arts for All” and was proud of winning awards for her work. Her art was used on a series of book-covers in 2019.

Barb was a great sports enthusiast and enjoyed watching all sports, especially the Packers. Barb was a huge fan of ‘Perry Mason’ and had collected over 40 Perry T-shirts. Barb enjoyed Bowling with friends. Barb was in a UNO card group through Options in Community Living. She participated in the UW student group ‘Best Buddies’ where she went out on outings with UW students, including walking in the homecoming parade. Barb was also proud of completing the Diabetes awareness walk.

Barb was a great Advocate and was a speaker at the Self Determination Conference in 2018. She participated in Advocacy Day, where she got to meet with her representatives and have her voice heard. Barb loved to discuss politics and always voted. She encouraged all around her to vote as well.

Barb loved to travel; Some of her favorite get-aways were Branson, Green Bay, Disney World and the Dells. Barb loved the theater and frequently attended the Overture center. She was passionate about Kanopy Dance and got season tickets every year. She formerly attended James Reeb Unitarian Church.

Barb was supported to live independently by Options in Community Living for many decades. She owned her Condo and was proud to decorate it. She prided herself on ‘keeping everyone in line”. She loved to tease people and make up names for them.

Barb is survived by; her Mother, Phyllis, Brothers: Bob (Becky) Priem and Ron Priem (Diane Simpson). She was proud to have many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her father, Bennie. Barb will be missed by all her family and a large group of friends and caretakers. Finally, the family would like to Thank Laura Gates and Teresa Navarro from Options in Community Living for watching over Barb for many years.

Celebration of Barb’s life will be held on Tuesday September 15, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Cress Funeral Home 3325 E. Washington Ave., Madison, WI 53704. She will be laid to rest at Sunset Memory Gardens.