Barbara Firkus

Barbara Ann Firkus was a loving mother and special grandma. Her kids could always depend on her help when needed, sound advice when asked and a sense of humor to get over the bumps in life. She was a very strong, independent woman who took pride in taking care of herself and her family.

Barb was born October 3, 1941 in Wauwatosa to the late John and Clara (Ratkowski) Schmidt. She grew up in Milwaukee and later moved to Galloway where she enjoyed living in the country. Barb was currently living in Wausau where she worked at Marathon Electric until her retirement. She was an active member of the Eagle's Club and past volunteer at NCHC.

At the age of 74, Barb passed away on Monday, August 1, 2016 at St. Clare's Hospital, Weston.

She is survived by nine children, Veronica (Armondo) Alvarado of Hudson, Ronald (Terry) Livingston of Stevens Point, Elizabeth (Mark) King of Plainfield, Patricia (Joe) Dorgan of Merrill, Janet Hoerman of Wausau, Vinson Firkus of Menominee, Joanne Firkus of Weston, Joyce Firkus of Wausau, Jodi Jensen of Wausau, eighteen grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, one brother, Donald (Barb) Schmidt of Birnamwood, one sister, Betty Powalisz of Milwaukee, two sisters-in-law, Donna and Judy Schmidt, many nieces and nephews and former husband, Vincent J. Firkus. Barb was further preceded in death by six brothers and two sisters.

Visitation will be from 1:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Monday, August 8, 2016 at the Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce St., Wausau. There will be an Eagle's memorial service beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the funeral home. You may sign our family guest book at helke.com.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Michael Schmidt and the staff at St. Clare's Hospital for the care and kindness our Mom and family received.