Barbara “Barbie” Newton-Gerke, 59, of Harrisonville, Missouri passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 19, 2025. In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to support funeral costs.
Barbara was born on March 30, 1966, in Kansas City, Missouri to Katherine Elizabeth Gerke and the late Joseph William Gerke. Barbara loved her family, friends, and family pets, as well as every kind of craft you could imagine. Anybody that knew Barbara knew what a loving, caring, and protective person she was. Her legacy for her love of family and friendship will live on in our hearts always.
Barbara would always say that her greatest accomplishments in life was her daughter Katy. Barbara worked hard as a single mother and would do anything in the world for her daughter. One of her greatest joys in life was her grandson Weston. They enjoyed cuddling in bed, eating muffins in the morning or talking about their days before bedtime. Barbara enjoyed working for many years programming medical records with Ascension. Barbara also enjoyed being in the kitchen cooking and would teach anybody how to cook and bake. Her hands were always at work doing something whether it was working on diamond art, crocheting, or putting together a new journal.
Barbara is survived by her daughter Katy Neufeld (Peter). Her grandson, Weston Neufeld. Her brother Duane Gerke, her sisters Elizabeth Stolte (Ryan), and Cynthia Spencer (Steve). Her nieces and nephews Caleb Gerke, Savannah Coltrin (Jared), Benjamin Gerke (Emma), Chloe Baker (Alek), Cassidy Spencer, and Reece Stolte. Barbie is also survived by her great nieces and nephews: Rhett, Lucas, Cameron, Vivian and Eleanor.
Barbara has many extended family and friends that will love and miss her always.
Our family sincerely appreciates the outpouring of love, support, condolences, and prayers.
Rosary will be held 5:30 p.m. with visitation to follow from 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Dickey Funeral Home, Harrisonville Missouri.
Funeral Mass with be held 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, Harrisonville, Missouri.