Barbara A. Startz

(Nee Kapella)

Born: October 3, 1943

At Rest: December 7, 2020

Age 77, late of Lockport passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family.

Barb was a graduate of Ludwig School and Lockport Central High School 1961. She received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Northern Illinois University. She began her teaching career in 1965 at her Alma-Mater, Ludwig School. She also taught at District 91, Milne and Kelvin Grove and retired from Homer District 33C after many years of dedicated service. Education was a very important aspect of Barb's life and she strived to share her knowledge. Barb's energy, enthusiasm, and love of teaching has touched and inspired so many. She enjoyed gardening, bird watching, playing cards, BINGO, and nature. She was a longtime member of IFT, AFT and IRTA and member of First United Methodist Church, Lockport. But above all else she especially enjoyed spending time with her family and friends.

Preceded in death by parents, Anthony and Isabelle (Nee McKeand) Kapella.

Survived by her loving daughters, Debbie Jerrick and Kim Startz; she leaves behind her precious grandchildren, Nikki, Brandon and Tyler Jerrick and Devin Bethea; a brother, Bill (Mary) Kapella; niece, Cheryl (Ron) Raugh and nephew, David Kapella; longtime friends, Roland Nice and Virginia Colegrove; special cousins, Susan Bradley and Patty (Bernie) Zupancic. Numerous other cherished family members also survive.  In lieu of flowers, memorials made to an animal shelter or animal rescue of your choice in Barb's name would be greatly appreciated.

All services and Interment at Elmhurst Cemetery, Joliet will be held privately with only her immediate family in attendance.

A public celebration of her life will be held when social distancing is not required.

Arrangements under the care and direction of O'Neil Funeral Home 1105 E. 9 ^th St. Lockport, IL., 60441.