Obituaries

September 8, 1950 to January 21, 2021

ROCHESTER - Barbara Elaine Foster, 70, of Rochester passed away at 7:14 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, at her residence.

She was born Sept. 8, 1950 to Lawrence and Frances Bailey James. Growing up, she shared her childhood with two sisters and a brother. In 1969, she graduated from Kewanna High School. She continued her education studying nursing at Ivy Tech Community College. She married Steven Foster on July 12, 1969, in Winamac. He survives.

Also surviving are two sons Steven Foster Jr. and wife Alison of Kewanna, and Dustin Foster and wife Elizabeth of Winamac; four grandchildren Austin, Ashlyn, Maddie and Mylie; two sisters Cheryl Jennings and husband Brian of Plymouth, Carolyn Marquart and husband Rex of Howe; a brother Larry James and wife Mary of Kewanna; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a granddaughter, Adelyn Marie Foster in 2006.

With a passion for helping others, Mrs. Foster was a traveling nurse, performed insurance physicals and worked at the Pulaski Clinic over the years. More recently she was a private duty caregiver. For many years she co-owned the Shopping Guide News with her husband. In 2010 they sold their publication to slowdown and enjoy life. During her years there she excelled in the advertising department as a sales rep. In earlier years, the couple planted a truck patch garden that included 75 tomato plants. The bountiful harvest was canned for the family's winter use and shared with special friends. Avid fans of NASCAR both loved Dale Jarrett. Mrs. Foster loved chatting with friends on the computer and Facebook and shopping. “Grandma Barb” was the matriarch of the Foster family. She was so very proud of her grandchildren. Always in the stands, courtside or seated in the auditorium, she was there to cheer them on and enjoy their concerts. She looked forward to celebrating birthdays and the holidays, making memories of a lifetime. She was always there for her “grands” in all ways. 

A celebration of the life of Mrs. Foster will be at 12 noon, Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Good Family Funeral Home, Rochester. Pastor Ed Clark will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Tuesday at the funeral home.