Loretta Barber

Loretta took the Lord's hand and went to her heavenly home, into the loving arms of her husband, Don, and her son, Michael. She died peacefully on Friday, December 3, 2021. She was the daughter of William and Velma (Dean) Christian, and was born on September 1, 1920 in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. Loretta graduated from Nicolet High School in De Pere, Wisconsin 1938, where she met her future husband, Don. While in high school, she was drum major of their championship band and took the leading part in all the musicals and plays. Loretta married Donald J. Barber on June 7, 1941, in St. Paul's Methodist Church in Green Bay. They were a unique and talented couple and were very active in giving in the community, state and even in Europe on their different trips, with their many talents. Loretta was President of the PTO of Lincoln High School and when son, Michael, was in the 7th grade, she took the entire class on a field trip to the Capital in Madison. She also took his 8thgrade class on a train trip to Chicago. Loretta was Director of the Grand Chapter Order of The Eastern Star for many years. She was a Life Member of The Order of the Eastern Star in the Charles A. Lawton Chapter #270, De Pere. Loretta was the Grand Representative of Illinois and a Grand Officer of the Grand Chapter. She was Worthy Matron 12 times, which included the Chapter's 25th, 50th, and 75th anniversaries. She was most recently involved in the OES Honor Chapter #1 of Sturgeon Bay. Loretta was also a charter member of Daughters of the Nile #156, a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Loretta loved to travel. She went to Italy three times, Poland twice, Romania and Yugoslovia. Survivors include, granddaughter, Kelly Cunningham; grandsons, Bryan (Layla) and Sean; great grandchildren, Colinand Hayden Barber; Ruby and Atticus Cunningham, and Hailey Castagnozzi. In addition, survivors include nephews, Jeff (Rachel) Christian and their children, Ashley, Jeremy and Casey; Steve (Mary) Christian and their children, Ross, Karley and Emilee (Drew) Monogue; Scott Christian and his children Tristen and Sondra; Craig Christian; and niece, Kim (Robb) Devine, son, Jake. Loretta was preceded in death by her husband, Don; son, Michael; brothers Bill (Iola)Christian; Donald (Geri) Christian; and nephew, Paul Christian. Family and friends may gather on Saturday, December 11, 2021, at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM and conclude at noon. A service will follow the visitation starting at noon. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the entire staff at Bellin Hospital for caring for Loretta during her final days.