Barbara (Barb) Marie Laus passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 76.
Born Barbara Marie Waslawski on June 28, 1950, in Traverse City, she grew up in Cedar, Michigan, the daughter of Edmund and Mary Waslawski. After attending Holy Rosary school and Glen Lake High School, Barb attended Michigan Technological University, where she met Peter Laus. The two wed on December 16, 1972, and shortly thereafter moved to Wahiawa, Hawaii, due to Pete’s enlistment in the Army.
The couple permanently settled in Montague, Michigan, where they raised their five children. Barb found a deep sense of purpose and community at St. James Catholic parish in Montague, Michigan. There, she served as organist and music ministry leader for over 40 years, devoting her time and energy to the sacraments and serving others. Her math education led her to a career in Quality Control at Lorin Industries, where she worked for 20 years until her retirement.
Barb found great joy in life playing volleyball and cards with family and friends, working on crafts and puzzles, tending to her beautiful flowers, and enjoying an ice-cold Diet Pepsi. She also enjoyed weekends at the family’s cottage in Newaygo and various vacations, including trips to Hawaii, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Italy and Alaska.
Barb is preceded in death by her parents, Edmund and Mary Waslawski; brother Edmund Waslawski; sister Carol Svisco; and sister-in-law Kathy Waslawski. She is survived by her husband, Peter Laus; children Jim (Cheryl) Laus, Jeff Laus, Jason Laus, Julie (Nathaniel) McAuliffe, and Joni (Joe) Morse; brother-in-law Mike Svisco; and many cherished grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian burial was held Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 11 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church, Montague, Michigan. Burial took place in the church's cemetery, Mt. Calvary.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, White Lake Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
