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Barbara Ann (Klein) Lanoue, 92, of Sarasota, Florida, passed away peacefully on August 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on January 1, 1933, in Harvey, Illinois, she grew up in a close-knit community and graduated from Thornton High School. She later made her home in Harvey and Mokena, Illinois, where she raised her children, cultivated lifelong friendships, and lived a life grounded in faith, love, and service.
Barbara was the beloved wife of the late Laurence Lanoue, with whom she shared a marriage rooted in devotion and shared values. She was a loving mother to Laurette (Tony) Verissimo, Evie (Dennis Locke) Schleeter, and Nanette (Jim) Marx, and a proud grandmother to Jeremiah (Maegen) Schleeter, Erin (Ken) Francis, Gideon Schleeter, Michael (Alex) Verissimo, Ryan (Alba Gonzalez) Verissimo, Sara (Brian) Easter, and Bridget (Joe) Esposito. She was also blessed with many great-grandchildren, each deeply cherished.
Known for her gracious spirit, Barbara made people feel truly seen and appreciated—never missing the chance to say “thank you” and sincerely mean it. She prayed faithfully over her family, lifting each loved one into God’s care, and lived her faith with quiet steadfastness. Her positive outlook, warm heart, and genuine interest in others made every conversation with her a gift. Barbara was quick to smile—and laugh—and she always had that special twinkle in her eye.
Faith was central to Barbara’s life. She was an active member of the First Christian Church in Harvey, the Mokena United Methodist Church, and later the American Lutheran Church in Bourbonnais. She offered encouragement, a listening ear, and a steady presence to all who knew her.
Barbara will be laid to rest at Sarasota National Cemetery, reunited with her beloved Laurence in eternal peace. Services will be private. Her legacy of kindness, gratitude, and faith will continue to inspire her family and friends for generations.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/.
From your family:
We will miss the sound of your voice, the warmth of your embrace, and the way you made each of us feel deeply loved. Your prayers comforted us, your example guided us, and your kindness shaped us. While our hearts ache at your absence, we rejoice knowing you are home with the Lord and reunited with Grandpa. We will carry your love forward, grateful for the grace and faith you instilled in us.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Ann (Klein) Lanoue, please visit our floral store.