Barbara Jean Stene, 68, of Black Hawk, SD, died Thursday, April 1, 2021, at her home. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend to many. Barbara Jean Ronning was born September 11, 1952, the daughter of Arnie and Mary Lou (South) Ronning, in Ada, MN. She grew up in Hendrum, MN. She married Carl Stene in 1968, and together they had a daughter, Dawn, in July of 1969.

They made their home in Halstad, MN, where, over the years, Barb worked as a waitress, a cook at the local school, and then for 17 years worked at the nursing home in Halstad. After leaving the nursing home she went to work at Integrity Windows in Fargo, ND. In 2005 she moved to Rapid City, SD, to be closer to her daughter and her family. She later moved to nearby Black Hawk, SD, with special friend, Todd Kuchenbecker. While there she worked at Hickok\'s casino in Deadwood, SD, until she retired in 2014.

Barb loved all animals, but cats were her favorite. She enjoyed gardening and canning, watching cop shows, enjoyed nature and country music. She didn\'t say it often, but when she talked about her family, she was very proud of them. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandsons.

She is survived by her daughter, Dawn (Darrel) Baker, of Rapid City, SD; two grandchildren Isaac and Caleb Baker; sisters Diane Schock of Black Hawk, SD, and Kathy Habeck, Belle Fourche, SD; brothers Kenny (Marge) Ronning, McIntosh, MN, and Larry (Judy) Ronning, Shelly, MN; and special friend, Todd Kuchenbecker, Black Hawk, SD. She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Daryl.

A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. For those wanting to send cards they can be mailed to her daughter and son-in-law’s house: 237 Balmar Place, Rapid City, SD 57702.