Barbara Foster

Barbara E. Foster, 70, Rochester passed away at 7:14 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021, at her residence.

Barbara Elaine James was born to Lawrence and Frances Bailey James Sept. 8, 1950. Growing up, she shared her childhood with two sisters and a brother. In 1969, She graduated from Kewanna High School. She continued her education studying nursing at Ivy Tech Community College.

In Winamac, Barbara married the love of her life, Steven Foster on July 12, 1969. They have shared 51 years of life’s adventures. From their union came two handsome sons, Steve and Dustin. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of four grandchildren.

With a passion for helping others Barbara was a traveling nurse, performed insurance physicals and worked at the Pulaski Clinic over the years. More recently she was a private duty caregiver. For many years she co-owned the Shopping Guide News with Steve. In 2010 they sold their publication to slowdown and enjoy life. During her years there she excelled in the advertising department as a sales rep.

In earlier years Barbara and Steve planted a truck patch garden that included 75 tomato plants. The bountiful harvest was canned for the family’s winter use and shared with special friends. Avid fans of NASCAR both Steve and Barb loved Dale Jarrett. Barbara loved chatting with friends on the computer and Facebook and shopping.

Grandma Barb was the matriarch of the Foster family. She was so very proud of her grandchildren. Always in the stands, courtside or seated in the auditorium, Grandma Barb was there to cheer them on and enjoy their concerts. She looked forward to celebrating birthdays and the holidays making memories of a lifetime. Always there for her grands in all ways.

Left to cherish Barbara’s memory are her husband, Steve; two sons: Steven Foster Jr. and wife Alison, Kewanna; Dustin Foster and wife Elizabeth, Winamac; four grandchildren: Austin, Ashlyn, Maddie and Mylie; two sisters: Cheryl Jennings and husband Brian of Plymouth, Carolyn Marquart and husband Rex of Howe; a brother, Larry James and wife Mary of Kewanna; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Barbara in death are her parents, Frances James Miller, Lawrence James, and a granddaughter, Adelyn Marie Foster in 2006.

A celebration of the life of Mrs. Barbara E. Foster will be at noon on Tuesday, Jan. 26, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th St., Rochester. Pastor Ed Clark will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 10-noon Tuesday, in the funeral home.