Barbara E. Heck

Barbara E. Heck, 82, of Thayer, Kansas, passed away on January 25, 2024, at Overland Park Reginal Medical Center in Overland Park Kansas.

She was born August 20, 1941, to Earl and Tillie Alice May in Independence, Kansas.

Barbara met the love of her life at the skating rink in Independence, Kansas. She was united in marriage to Louis Heck on June 18, 1961, at Harrison Chapel in rural Thayer, Kansas eventually making their home in the surrounding Thayer area. To this union, three children were born.

Barbara held various jobs in her lifetime. From homemaker, CNA, a housekeeper at Holiday Inn in Chanute, and a 40-year employee of Wal-Mart in Chanute where she greeted customers with a warm smile and friendly demeanor before retiring.

She had many interests and hobbies including flowers, free-hand pencil drawing, baking, and her beautiful cats. Additionally, she played an active role in the family farm, offering her assistance wherever needed.

Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her spouse Louis E. (Tyke) Heck of the home, and children, Steven (Rhonda) Heck, Cheryl (Randy) Studebaker, and Mark Heck, all of Thayer, Kansas. Barbara was blessed with seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, bringing her immense joy and her extended family;

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Cecil May of El Dorado Springs, MO, Walter May of Seattle, WA, and Wanda Goode of Coffeyville, KS, and infant sister Donna Jo May.

Barbara is fondly remembered for her kind-hearted nature and unwavering dedication to her family.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 30, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Thayer Christian Church, 8495 Dorn Rd, Thayer, KS.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be Wednesday, January 31, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Thayer Christian Church, 8495 Dorn Rd, Thayer, KS, with burial to follow at Harrison Cemetery, Rural Thayer, Kansas.

Memorials in honor of Barbara can be made out to The Salvation Army, Thayer Christian Church Preschool, or Thayer Fire and Rescue and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.

In this time of sorrow, may the memories of Barbara's love and laughter bring comfort to those who knew and cherished her.

Services are under the guidance of Wickham Family Funeral Home 500 North Forest Ave. Chanute, Kansas 66720.