Barbara Volkman

Barbara Volkman, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, in Greenwood, Indiana. Born on March 31, 1941, in Brooklyn, New York, her life was marked by her intelligence, integrity, and dedication to her family and community.

Barbara grew up in Kankakee, IL the oldest of three children. She was a talented musician and student at Kankakee High School, where she marched in the band and graduated as co-Valedictorian. She majored in chemistry at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, where she joined the AOII sorority, played in the band and met her future husband, Joe.

In 1963, Joe and Barbara married and moved to Indianapolis where Barbara worked for several years as an organic chemist at Eli Lilly. She loved her job synthesizing new drugs for pain relief but chose to retire after the birth of their first child. Barbara was an enthusiastic homemaker who enjoyed gardening, sewing and baking. She was a proud marching band mom at Southport High School, supporting and cheering on the students with vigor. She took immense joy in nurturing and guiding her children and grandchildren, leaving a legacy of love and wisdom that will be felt for generations.

Barbara's passion for education extended beyond her own family. She was a homeschool mom and an activist who worked tirelessly to ensure that the rights of parents to educate their children were protected. Her efforts were instrumental in the drafting and passing of the Parent Pupil Protection Act enacted in 1991 by the Indiana General Assembly, a testament to her belief in the importance of the family in civic life.

Her interests were as varied as they were rich. As a committed Christian, Barbara's faith was a guiding force in her life. She worshipped and served in the music ministry at several churches over the years, including Lord of Life Lutheran, Mount Auburn Methodist, Community Church of Greenwood and the Church at Stones Crossing. Barbara was an avid researcher, always seeking to expand her knowledge and understanding of the universe and its creator. Her love for Norway and the Vikings was inspired by her family's North Dakota immigrant history and culture. Barbara's home was a reflection of her passions, filled with books, plants, and handcrafted items that told the story of a life well-lived.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Joe Frederick Volkman; her son, Brian Finley Volkman and his wife Kristen of Muskego, Wisconsin; her daughters, Diane Volkman Magill and her husband Pat of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Catherine Ann Satre and her husband Jamie of Greenwood, Indiana; her brother, Douglas Owen; and her nine adoring grandchildren, Owen, Parker, Poppy, Finn, Evie, Andrew, Emi, DJ, and Zaine. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lloyd and Evelyn Wold Owen, and her sister, Susan Fulton.

She will be remembered as a beacon of intelligence and love, whose impact on her family and community will endure. Her memory will be cherished and celebrated by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A memorial visitation will take place from 9:30-11AM, Saturday, May 2, 2026 at Wilson St.Pierre Funeral Service, Greenwood Chapel, 481 W. Main Street, Greenwood. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11AM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to:

Concerned Women for America https://concernedwomen.org/donate/

Indianapolis Symphonic Band https://indyband.org/donate

Greenwood Christian Academy https://www.gcak12.org/give

Lake Country Classical Academy https://www.lakecountryclassical.org/donate/

You are invited to view Barbara's online obituary at www.stpierrefamilyfuneral.com, where you may sign the online register book or leave a condolence for the family.