BARBARA JEAN ASTLING

Barbara Jean (Swanson) Astling age 91, of DeKalb passed away, Saturday, March 9, 2024 at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb.

She was born on March 8, 1933 in Geneva, IL to Swan and Ruth (Swanson) Swanson. Barbara was a graduate of DeKalb High school, class of 1951, where she participated in band and was a baton twirler, a skill which remained with her until her passing. She married Roger D. Astling on February 24, 1962 at First Lutheran Church in DeKalb, where she was confirmed and remained a member for 75+ years.

A hard worker, Barbara was employed by DeKalb Ag and Cords Limited prior to having her children. She completed her career as the first employee of Barb City Manor, retiring at age 78 after 32 years of service. ln retirement, she enjoyed spending time with her family, knitting, doing word puzzles, and playing cards. Her love of her Swedish heritage was second to none, as was her quick wit and great sense of humor. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Donna (Kevin) Hickey, Shabbona, IL; and son, David Astling, Malta, IL; her grandchildren Brian (Kristin) Hickey, Highland, IL; Laura (Mindy) Meyer, Guttenberg, IA; Nolan Hickey, Memphis, TN; and Emily Astling, Lee, IL; and her great-grandchildren, Tristan, Trent, Kayla, Brentan, and Jackson. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Carolyn Marshall; as well as several nieces and nephews.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Swan and Ruth; husband, Roger; brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Carole Swanson; brother-in-law, William Marshall; as well as brothers and sisters-in-law, Duane and Judith Astling and Sharon and Jack Reif.

Funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, March 14, 2024 at First Lutheran Church, 324 North Third Street, DeKalb with the Rev. Dr. Janet Hunt officiating. Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until time of service Thursday at the Church. Interment will follow at Fairview Cemetery.

A memorial is being established for the benefit of First Lutheran Church and Barb City Manor.

Arrangements handled by Anderson Funeral Home, DeKalb, with special thanks for the personal care provided by family friend Barry Melton.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.

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