Barbara Joyce (nee Kozlowski) Jonuska Papich, 85, of Clermont, Florida, passed peacefully on Dec. 13, 2025, leaving a legacy of generosity and love that touched everyone who knew her.
Born on April 15, 1940, in Chicago, Barbara was the daughter of Judy (Cichewicz) and Theodore Kozlowski. As a teenager, her family moved to Delavan. Her parents owned and operated Ted’s Capers Supper Club for many years, where she continued to develop her love of cooking that began in Chicago, including training under various accomplished chefs. That love of cooking meant no one ever left her home hungry. She loved trying new recipes, tweaking them to make them her own, and sharing them with others.
As the daughter of entrepreneurs, she continued the tradition by working with her mother, Judy, to start Douglas Originals, selling a variety of handmade products in Wisconsin and the Chicago area. She also worked at various resorts around southeastern Wisconsin for many years, including The Abby in Fontana and the Playboy Club in Lake Geneva.
In 1974, recognizing a need for children’s activities, she opened CSA Kids Sports & Arts Campus, offering gymnastics, dance, baton, guitar, and preschool. She expanded the business with a second location in Janesville. After 45 years, she officially turned the business over to her son and retired.
Barbara was known for her love of cooking, her dedication to providing children opportunities to learn new things and be creative, and her love and dedication to her family and friends. Her home was always open, and she was there to offer her wisdom, support, and encouragement to all.
Barbara was preceded in death by her first husband, Frank Jonuska; her second husband, Bernie Papich; her brother Theodore Kozlowski Jr.; and her parents, Theodore and Judy Kozlowski.
She is survived by her children from her first marriage, Douglas Jonuska, Leslie (Brian) Seefeldt, and Maralee (William) Tabor; as well as grandchildren Jordan, Zachary, AJ, Ethan, Andrew, Rylee, Mitchell, Kylan, Evan, and Addison; and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Linda Kozlowski (wife of her brother Ted) with their children Greg and Jeff (Jamie) Kozlowski; her foster brothers Steve (Dawn) Rosencrans and Mike Rosencrans; as well as numerous extended family and friends.
We will remember her as a woman of incredible strength, generosity, and love. While she may be gone, her spirit will remain with us forever.
A private ceremony will be held in Delavan at a future date. Dear to her heart was helping children, as well as supporting victims of domestic violence. In place of flowers, please consider donating to your local or favorite organization that supports these causes.