Barbara (Neelands) Hoenke

       Barbara Hoenke (Neelands) age 91, left this earth to join the love of her life, David, on March 18, 2021.  Barbara was a woman with great artistic talent.  In her younger years, she painted beautiful oil paintings of the Indiana Dunes, her favorite place. Later, she helped her husband design and build their dream house. She loved being a stay-at-home mom. She loved to bake and sew dresses for her daughters.  When the grandchildren arrived, she created custom dolls for them and for other lucky children. Her pride and joy was the three story fairy dollhouse that was built by her husband, Dave. Barbara spent years wallpapering and decorating this magical house. Unfortunately, Barbara lost most of her vision and her crafting had to end, but she loved singing and continued her love of music.

       Barbara Hoenke (Neelands) was born September 4, 1929 in Chicago to Roy Marlowe Neelands and Helen Neelands (Black). The family moved to Chesterton in the 1930’s where Barbara discovered the Indiana Dunes.  On a rainy day in 1950, Barbara met the love of her life, David Hoenke, on the steps at Johnson’s beach. They were married June 7, 1952 at St. John Church. She and David had three children: Tracy McDonald, Kim Cassler and Mark Hoenke (Kimberly).  They were the proud grandparents of six: Caleb McDonald, Zach McDonald, Courtney Udvare (AJ), Matt Cassler, Steve Hoenke, and Chris Hoenke.

       Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, David Hoenke and her parents, Roy and Helen Neelands.

       There will be no services per her wishes.

       Donations may be made to VNA Hospice: 501 Marquette St, Valparaiso, IN 46383.

       Professional arrangements are entrusted to the White-Love Funeral Home, 525 S 2nd St., Chesterton, IN. Memories may be shared at: www.whitelovefuneralhome.com.

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