Barbara Ann Henke

Barbara Ann Henke, 94, of Mishawaka, passed away on March 19, 2026, surrounded by her family, at the North Woods Village at Edison Lakes in Mishawaka, IN.  She was born February 11, 1932, in Chicago, IL to the late Spurgeon and Marjorie (Eaton) Parks and remained a lifelong Mishawaka area resident.

Barbara and Eugene were united in marriage on June 14, 1957.  Eugene proceeded Barbara in death. She is survived by her two children, a daughter, Mary Catherine (Bryan) Staffin, of Buchanan, Michigan, and a son, Michael (Deborah) Henke of Carol Stream, IL, and four grandchildren, Matt (Hannah) Henke, Nick Henke, Mitchell (McKenzie Noltner) Henke, and Michaela Staffin. Barbara’s sister, Patricia (Jack) Kowalski of Jackson, MI; and several nieces and nephews also remain.

Barbara was a devoted homemaker, creating a welcoming haven for her family and friends.  Her family meant the world to her, spending any time with them was her greatest joy.  One of her passions was going to the library and finding interesting books to read. Her home was a testament to her love of her family.  Barbara was a beacon of light in the lives of those who knew her, her spirit forever etched in the hearts of those she loved, she would also reply “God Bless them”.

She was a devout member of First United Methodist Church in Mishawaka.  She enjoyed singing in the Choir for many years and her faith was the cornerstone of her life.  Barbara was a bright light to many of the folks around her.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 am on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel, 17131 Cleveland Road, South Bend, IN  46635. Visitation will be from 10:30-11:30. Graveside services will follow the service at Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka, IN. 

Memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN  38105 or Luminary Hospice Care, South Bend Mishawaka, IN 46545.

Palmer Funeral Home – Hickey Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered for the family at www.palmerfuneral homes.com.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.