Barbara Joann Ivan, age 73, of Tecumseh, MI, passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, surrounded by her family at University of Michigan Health. She was born December 10, 1951, in Spring Lake, MI, the daughter of Edward and Frances (Schippers) Hushyn. On September 27, 2013, she married Gary Michael Ivan in Saline, MI.
Barbara made her home in several places throughout her life and carried each one with her. While most recently a resident of Tecumseh, she was also a proud and engaged member of the Flint community and treasured the years she spent living adventurously in Sanford, Florida, and Cartago, Costa Rica. She graduated from Spring Lake High School in 1970. Professionally, Barbara began her career as an accountant and later served as an administrative director in both the automotive and healthcare fields, where her dedication and warmth left a lasting impression.
Barbara loved to explore the world. Traveling with her husband, Gary, her son, Sam, and her close friends brought her immense joy. At home, she found peace in her garden and solace in a good book. She was exceptionally creative and spent countless hours knitting, sewing, quilting, and practicing needlepoint, creating gifts she often shared with the people she loved.
Barbara is survived by her husband, Gary; her son, Sam (Jenna Morgan) Florida of Detroit, MI; her stepdaughters, Stephanie Ivan of Whitmore Lake, MI, and Amber Ivan of Napoleon, MI; and her step-granddaughter, Maverick Mae Ramirez of Whitmore Lake, MI. She is also survived by her mother, Fran Hushyn of Grand Haven, MI, and her sister, Mari Lou (Jim) Rose of Grand Haven, MI. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward, and her first husband, Samuel Florida.
At Barbara’s request, cremation has taken place. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Tecumseh Chapel of Handler Funeral Homes.