Barbara Vanchena, age 91, passed away on Monday, August 23, 2021 at her residence in Kenosha with her family by her side.

Born on June 14, 1930 in Neenah, WI, she was the daughter of the late Frank Marquardt and Elizabeth (Schmidt) Petrick. After living her childhood on the shores of Lake Winnebago, Barbara moved with her family to Kenosha in 1945.

Over the years, Barbara worked at Abbott Labs, Simmons Mattress Co, Van’s Roofing Inc and Wal-Mart. While working at Simmons, she met Nickolas Vanchena.  They were married on August 18, 1952 in Waukegan, IL.  Together, they had eight children.

 She enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles, the more complex the better, playing a good game of Canasta and loved to read.  Also, she enjoyed going out for a meal whether it was with family or friends.  In addition, Barbara traveled to several destinations including: Hawaii, Las Vegas and Washington State as well as Germany, France and England.  Unfortunately, she was unable to make it to Washington DC to see the cherry blossoms.

Barbara is survived by her children, Paula Bergo, Kate Anderson, Nickolas (Jane) Vanchena, Richard Vanchena, John Vanchena; her grandchildren, Steven Godlewski, Rich Anderson, Sarah (Larry) Clark, Spencer (Andrea) Bergo, Teryn Pittrof, Alex Bergo, Justine (Shawn) Murphy, Nick (Sarah) Vanchena, Curtis Vanchena; her great-grandchildren, Rayeanne (Tony) Lichter, Gabrielle Godlewski, Zachary Clark, JD Clark, Devin Godlewski, Chase Clark, Kai Pittrof, Salis Murphy and Jasper Murphy.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Nickolas; her Stepfather, Russell Petrick; her brothers, James and Donald Marquardt; her sons, William and Robert Vanchena; her daughter, Karen Godlewski; her fur buddy, Angel.

The family would like to thank Dr Shepler and his staff for all the care given to Mom over the last few years.

Service Info

Funeral services honoring Barbara’s life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 at the Piasecki Funeral Home, 3720 39th Ave, Kenosha.

Interment with follow in St. George Cemetery.

A visitation for Barbara will be held on Tuesday, August 31, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the funeral home.