Freeport – Barbara A. Atz, 77, of rural Freeport passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2025.  She was born on August 14, 1947 to Donald and Marjorie (Marienthal) Walker in Moline, IL.  She and Kenneth Atz were married on September 9, 1978 in Dakota, IL.

Barbara graduated from Freeport High School in 1965.  She worked in banking and insurance, retiring from Alpine Bank Trust & Investment Group in Belvidere.  She enjoyed traveling with Ken on their Honda Goldwing during the early years of their marriage. Later, she enjoyed following her grandchildren's activities, caring for her cats, Sassy & Mittens, and keeping in touch with long-time friends and neighbors.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Joel) Wise of Freeport; grandchildren, Caleb (Rachael Kersch Libowski) Wise, Jared (Macie) Wise, Adam Wise, Aaron Wise, James (Joanne Howard) Wise, Caitlyn Carlson and great-granddaughter Felicity Wise. Step-sons, Terry (Julie) Atz of Freeport and Gregory Atz of Rockford, and step-granddaughter Kirsten Atz. Sister, Susan Dicks of Winnebago, sisters-in-law, Kay Walker of Freeport and Judy Atz of Freeport, and several nieces and nephews.  She also leaves behind two special friends, Alice VanBrocklin and Lisa Grutsch.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ken, her son, Donald Erb, and brother, Wayne Walker.

There will be a visitation at Daughenbaugh Funeral Home to be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10:00 A.M.  A service will be held immediately following at 11:00 A.M., officiated by Pastor David Schrader of Journey Fellowship.  Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com.