Barbara Nemtuda (nee Crocker), age 74, of Lafayette, IN and formerly of Lake Station and LaPorte, IN passed away on Wednesday, September 28, 2022.

Barb was born on February 19, 1948 in Gary, IN to the late Charles and Catherine (nee Hepler) Crocker.  She was a graduate of Edison High School, Class of 1966.  Barb went on to study applied science and received her Associates Degree from Purdue University North Central.  She worked as a payroll assistant for many years with Whirlpool Corporation and with Purdue University.  Barb met the love of her life, Thomas Nemtuda, during high school and married him on September 20, 1969.  They spent 45 wonderful and loving years together until his passing in 2015.

Barb was very devoted to her family.  Her girls were her life.  She was an active band and softball mom, managing uniforms and the concession stands.  In her quiet moments, Barb loved to read, create ceramics, and be with her grand-puppies.  Barb was a huge fan of Straight No Chaser and The Beatles, even seeing both in concert.  She was very excited to see Paul McCartney in concert some 40 years later!  She was a beloved wife, devoted mother, loving grandmother, dear sister, aunt, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Barb is survived by her three beautiful daughters: Brenda (Tony) Liles, Laura Nemtuda, and Sara Nemtuda; grandson: Travis (Autumn) Perkins; great-grandson: Colten; siblings: Shareen (late Art) Barnack, Charles "Dick" Crocker, and Linda (Willard) Palmateer; sisters-in-law: Shirley (Jeff) Fomby and Joan (late Robert) Pisarski; many nieces and nephews; and grand-puppies: Piper, Gracie, and Patches.

Barb is preceded in death by her husband: Tom; parents: Charles and Catherine; siblings: Gerald and Douglas Crocker, Joann Beverly, and infant sister: Susan Jane; brothers-in-law: Art Barnack, Robert Pisarski, and Ray Nemtuda; and beloved dogs: Sam, Molly, Lady, Trent, and Sophie.

Family and friends may gather at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel (5341 Central Ave, Portage) on Monday, October 3, 2022 from 3:00-7:00 P.M.  A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Lourdu Pasala officiating.  At Rest, Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Barbara's name may be made to the American Cancer Society or to a charity of your choice.