Barbara Henke

Barbara Joyce Henke, 82, of Walker, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 7, 2026, at Birchview Gardens in Walker after a long journey with Lewy Body Dementia.

Barbara was born on June 24, 1943, in Walker, Minnesota, to William and Loretta (Lang) Erickson. She spent her early years in Walker, after which the Erickson family moved to Akeley. Barbara completed her education at Akeley High School and subsequently pursued studies in cosmetology at Wadena Technical College. She began her career as a beautician at Ila's Beauty Shop in Walker.

Barbara married Allen Henke Nov. 30, 1964, and were married 61 years. The couple initially resided in Minneapolis and Rosemount before making their home in Walker, overlooking scenic Pumphouse Bay on Leech Lake. Their family grew to include four children: Joyce, Theresa, Angela and Richard. After starting a family, Barbara became a full-time homemaker. Years later, she spent 18 years working from home, assembling pen top testers for Cottage Industries.

Barbara especially enjoyed spending time with her family and found pleasure in word-find puzzles, crocheting afghans and doilies, collecting bells, reading, gardening, playing cards with family and friends, and trips to the family cabin on Little Grassy River in Canada.

Barbara was preceded in death by her daughter, Angela Henke Peck; parents William and Loretta Erickson; sister Minerva Fischer; and brother William Erickson.

She is survived by her loving husband, Allen Henke of Walker; daughters Joyce (Randy) Sundberg of Foreston; Theresa (Todd) Felix of Walker; son Richard Henke of Lakefield; sister Marie Crosby of Akeley; brother Jim (Rose) Erickson of Thief River Falls; grandchildren Brandon Cameron, Heather, Ryan, Sadie, Chevelle and Cheyenne; and great-grandchildren Rowen, Leni and Lincoln.

Barbara's family extends their gratitude to all friends and relatives for the support shown throughout the past several years. They also wish to thank Birchview Gardens and St. Croix Hospice for their kindness, compassion and devoted care provided to Barbara.

A memorial service for Barbara will be held April 4 at 11 a.m., with a one-hour visitation prior at Northern Peace Funeral Home in Walker.

Online condolences for the family may be left at www.northernpeace.com

Barbara's care has been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker.