Barbara Ann Hotchkiss

Barbara Ann Hotchkiss, 86, was welcomed joyfully into her heavenly home on May 4, 2023 surrounded by her family and loved ones. Barbara was the beloved wife of Forbes for almost 65 years, loving mom of Michael, Lorri, David (Kim), Beth (John) and Matthew (Amy),“Nonnie” to Cameron, Austin, and Patrick Wagner, Rachel, Megan, Haley, and Justin Morrison, Taylor (Ashley), Emily (Matt), Lauren and Caleb , Annalise, Sophie Grace and Madeline Hotchkiss, Great Grandma to Jedidiah and Margaret Jennifer. Sister to Connie Elliott ( Rich).

She is preceded in death by her parents, her sister Tanya and her grandson Cameron

Barbara was born in Hamilton, and raised in Nelsonville, Ohio. She graduated from Ohio University where she met her husband Forbes. She became a teacher and returned to her hometown of Nelsonville for her first teaching job while Forbes finished his engineering degree. He began his career with Alcoa that took them to Cleveland, San Francisco, New Orleans, Indianapolis, Chicago and finally to Oconomowoc where they have been blessed to enjoy 44 years of living in the beautiful Lake Country. Barbara’s profession was a teacher, but she gave her heart to raising her family, being a wonderful friend, and a devoted Christian. A full fledged animal lover, one of her passions was taking care of injured animals at WildLife in Need. She rescued and released countless ducks at her lake home. Gardening was also a favored activity as she planted beautiful plants and flowers to attract birds, butterflies, and wildlife. Teaching her grandchildren all about birds, watching them at the countless feeders and making lists of ones they spotted, especially the treasured Orioles, was so important to her. Her sense of humor, adventure spirit and laughter was endearing to her friends. Another beautiful quality was her curiosity and willingness to learn new things. Music, gardening, quilting, art clubs, accompanying Forbes on his international business travel were just a few! Barbara’s faith was an integral part of who she was as she strived to live out her faith each day.

Barbara and Forbes were an example of a committed marriage celebrating almost 65 years together. They loved traveling together, camping across the country when their family was young, exploring new places, and most especially sitting on their deck enjoying coffee and the beauty of their home.

Barbara will be deeply missed by her friends and family until we see her again! Hope Eternal!

A visitation will take place from 9:00am-10:00am with a service to follow on Saturday, June 3rd at Oakwood Church (3041 Oakwood Rd, Hartland, WI 53029)  with a luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the WildLife in Need Center in memory of Barbara Hotchkiss, or the Alzheimer Association.