Barbara Jean Knapke
September 6, 1939 ~ July 27, 2022
Barbara Jean Knapke, 82 of Indianapolis, died peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday July 27.
Barbara was born on September 6, 1939, in Covington, Kentucky to Thomas and Norma Reinersman Warman.
On September 21, 1957, Barbara and Don took a vow to love each other, which they did for 65 years.
Barbara was a member of St. Mark Catholic Church, where she was a member of CRHP, Mary’s Way, Thursday Morning Rosary group, and was the leader of Hospitality Committee
Family was the most important thing in Barbara’s life. Family was her jewel in life. She enjoyed helping her husband, Don. All children had a special place in Barbara’s heart.
Barbara is survived by her beloved husband Donald Knapke, children Deborah (Dennis) Ellerby, Donald (Danielle) Knapke Jr., Douglas Knapke, Denise (Bob) Soltis, David (Hilla) Knapke. Sister Jeri Warman, grandchildren Michael, Brittany, Abby, Sarah, Jade, Emily, India, Casey, Kaya and great grandchildren Emma, Eli, Sam, Jackson and Henry.
She is preceded in death by her parents and sister Joan Pope.
Visitation for Barbara will be Monday, August 8 from 4 – 7 pm at O’Riley Branson Funeral Service and Crematory, 6107 South East Street, Indianapolis, Indiana. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday, August 9 at 10 am at St. Mark Catholic Church, 535 E. Edgewood Ave, Indianapolis, Indiana.
To leave a tribute and memory of Barbara please visit www.orileybranson.com
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Friends and Family uploaded 2 to the gallery.
Always welcoming us into her home and putting up with our shenanigans 🙂 A wonderful, faith based, loving woman. I’ve had great conversations with her over the years and have been blessed by her presence in my life. Prayers to the entire Knapke family as you celebrate the amazing woman she was!
Sending you love during this difficult time.
So very sorry. Dave & Cathy Ralstin
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
My beautiful and loving mother. Our family will never be the same! You were the heart. You would have been so proud of us working as a team right through the end! Love you and miss you, Your daughter Debbie Ellerby
We are thinking of you. The Staff of the Country Inn and Suites Indianapolis Airport
With loving memories of Barb, a wonderful sister-in-law and aunt.
David Knapke — We are thinking of you during this difficult time.
So many great memories of Aunt Barb over the years-she will be missed! Sending you all lots of love, prayers and strength. Love you all so much!
Although we can’t be there in person to mourn with you, we do send a little Umoja light your way. We love you!
Lit a candle in memory of Barbara Jean Knapke