STEWARD — Barbara Brierton Barkei, 95, passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2017 at the Rochelle Community Hospital surrounded by her loving family. Barb was born on May 14, 1921 to Lee and Louise (Kerste) Brierton in Glen Ellyn. She married Gilbert Louis Barkei on Nov. 25, 1943 in Glen Ellyn.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Gilbert, on Oct. 17, 2010; and her brother, William Brierton.  
Barb will be remembered for her love of life, her cheerful spirit, and her enthusiasm. She loved to play cards, travel, garden and golf. She loved to entertain friends and to be surrounded by her family.
Barb is survived by two sons, William “Bill” (Paula) Barkei and Robert “Bob” (Shelly) Barkei both of Steward; two daughters, Patricia “Pat” Mustari of Schaumburg, and Margaret “Peg” (Steve) Germann of Staples, Minn.; five grandchildren, Christine Thompson, Elle Cooper, Brandon Barkei, Andy Barkei and Kelsey (Garrett Koch) Barkei; and great-granddaughter, Kaya Cooper.
The visitation will be from 9 to 10:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 11 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 207 Kelley Drive, Rochelle. The funeral service will follow the visitation at 11 a.m. on Saturday with Father Johnson Lopez officiating. Burial is at St. Patrick Cemetery in Rochelle.
Memorials may be made in Barb’s memory to Rochelle Area Community Foundation or Serenity Hospice and Home.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.