Barbara Lee Hoerman, 85, a longtime resident of Antigo, passed away on September 14, 2023 in King where she has resided at the Wisconsin Veterans Home since January of 2014.

She was born on July 7, 1938 in Milwaukee, a daughter of the late John "Jack" and Mildred (Herman) McKinnon. She married Ben Hoerman on May 17, 1958 at St. Mary Catholic Church. He preceded her in death on November 2, 2014.

Barbara attended St. Mary Catholic Grade School and was a part of the first graduating eighth-grade class. She later graduated from Antigo High School, class of 1956, which recently celebrated its 67th class reunion.

Barbara was a devoted homemaker and mother, dedicating her life to caring for her family. In addition to her role as a homemaker, she worked as a seamstress for her Uncle Lee's tailor shop. She was a member of the Leland-Tollefson Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliary Unit 2653 and served as commander, senior vice-president, and publicity chairman, and was a member of the Paul Marmes Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary.

She enjoyed various hobbies, including listening to old-time country music, cheering for the Green Bay Packers and Milwaukee Brewers, and dining out at Two Angels, The Dixie, and Truck's Place. Barbara also loved traveling and accompanied her husband, Ben, on numerous trips, assisting veterans with their appointments at various V.A. clinics. Family trips to the Badlands and Branson were among her cherished memories. In later years she enjoyed making ceramics, woodworking and leather crafts, and exhibiting them at the Waupaca County Fair where she received many blue ribbons.

Barbara was a faithful member of SS Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church. Her strong faith provided her with comfort and guidance throughout her life. She was especially fond of Rev. Jeremiah Worman who was a classmate of hers. A special thank you to Sister Martha from King who was her spiritual guidance while there.

She is survived by her son, Martin (Rhonda Witte) Hoerman of Neillsville; grandchild, Christy Viergutz of Wisconsin Rapids; son-in-law, Richard Viergutz; sisters-in-law, Phyllis Bula, Marie Gesell, and Geri Hoerman, all of Antigo, and Judy Hoerman; brothers-in-law, Carl (Eleanor) Hoerman, Jr. and Robert (Ann) Hoerman, both of Antigo; special nephew, Patrick Beckman of California; special nieces, Julie Sims of Nevada and Angela (Steve) Watson of Colorado; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter, Margaret Viergutz; sister, Jacquelyn Beckman; grandchild, Kenneth (Viergutz) Robinson; and uncles, Lee and Robert Herman.

The funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, September 28 at SS Mary & Hyacinth Catholic Church at 11 a.m. with Reverend Charles Hoffmann officiating. Entombment will take place at Queen of Peace Cemetery.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 28 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Bradley Funeral Home.

If you were unable to attend the Mass, you are able to watch the recording: https://youtu.be/-T82MA1MOQE

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Barbara's memory may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation.

May Barbara Lee Hoerman rest in peace, and may her loved ones find solace in the memories they shared.

"To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die" - Thomas Campbell

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