Laura Louise Barker, 83 of Wanatah, passed away on Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at her home. She was born on December 23, 1940 in Michigan City, IN to the late Joseph Gryzback and Mildred (Schroeder) Marine. Laura graduated from Wanatah High School and was a member at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Wanatah. She made her career as a Lab Technician at Porter Memorial Hospital for over 50 years before retiring in 2017. She loved birdwatching, enjoying the flowers, many and various fabric crafts, and being active with her friends. Her giving heart, outgoing personality, and willingness to help others could be seen as she assisted with homeschool teaching for many years. Even though Laura could not tell her left from her right, she was “never lost, just not on the road she wanted to be on.” Her bright smile, quick wit, and devoted nature will be dearly missed.
Laura is survived by her son, Mark (Lynda) Barker; grandchildren: Gregory Barker Jr., Stephanie LaFrance, Paige (Jacob Town) Barker, Samantha Barker, and Zach Barker; and great-granddaughter, Alana Barker. She is preceded in death by her son, Gregory Barker Sr.; daughter-in-law, Rhonda Barker; and father of their children, Robert Barker.
A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at St John’s Lutheran Church, 15496 S. 900 W., Wanatah, IN, with a memorial service starting at 12:00 PM with Rev. Joel S. Zipay officiating. Burial to follow at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation, PO Box 871847, Kansas City, MO 64187.
