Wilma Jean Rees, 75, peacefully passed away at home with her family by her bedside at 9:15 a.m. on Wednesday, December 2, 2020.
In Plymouth, Indiana, Jean was born on December 3, 1944 to Charles H. and Evalena (Howard) Barcus. She graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1962.
After graduation Jean enlisted into the U.S. Army and was stationed in Ft. Ritchie in Maryland as a stenographer with the Women’s Army Corps. She would be Honorably Discharged on June 18, 1965.
In a quick and simple way, Jean married the love of her life, Robert D. Rees on February 12, 1966 at the
Mount Rose Wedding Chapel in Reno, NV.
While raising their two girls, she worked for 15 years as a paralegal for several lawyers in the Marshall County area. And the job she absolutely adored in her later years was working for Price Nursery in Plymouth for 8 years. She was a staff administrator but really a jack-of-all trades there because she loved plants and being outdoors. Jean was a former member of the Women of the Moose, until her health declined.
A “weed worrier”, as her daughter called her, in her own yard, Jean enjoyed gardening and keeping a well-kept home. But above all, family was the center of her world. Holidays were important, and not for the gifts, but to celebrate family and the treasured times to be together. She loved to entertain and made sure to cook for an “army”. This caring nature would be extended and offered to her neighbors and dear friends also that needed Holiday cheer or a good meal. Jean was a caregiver to call and adored by so many.
She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Robert, and her two daughters: Jennifer (Michael) Davenport of Plymouth and Laurie (Jim) VanDerVelden of Walkerton; grandchildren: Foster (Jesi) Davenport, Jason VanDerVelden (Jenna Rhynard), Emily (Cameron) Crager, Amy (Zach) King, and Schuylar VanDerVelden (Jessica Weisser); several great-grandchildren; and her siblings: James (Maryann) Barcus and Sharon Kamp.
Jean was preceded in death by her parents; sisters: Betty Lawson, Ruth Shorter, Nancy Spiek, Laura Stiles, Linda Keller and Sandra Davenport; and brothers, Paul, Robert, and Ed Barcus.
According to Jean’s wishes, there will be no service or visitation at this time.
Memorial contributions can be made to Elara Caring Hospice, 7030 Pointe Inverness Way Suite 230, Ft. Wayne, IN 46804 or Humane Society of Marshall Co, PO Box 22, Plymouth, IN 46563.
Ed Barcus says
Bob, Laurie, Jennifer and families,
So sorry to hear of Aunt Jeans passing. Please know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Larry Starr says
So sorry to hear of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family during this very difficult time.
Barbara L Ridley says
Jennifer:
Am praying for you and your family during this time of grief. Your mother was a beautiful woman. She has left a wonderful legacy by the family that will continue to show the love the she showed. God bless you and the entire family.
Lori Leedy Wheatley says
I’m so sorry for the family’s loss. I cherish my memories of her. She was like a second Mom to me when I was living across the street. She was a great woman 💙
Sara Deeter says
Bob –
We are so sorry to hear of Jean’s passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. She was a wonderful neighbor – we will miss her.
Bill and Sara Deeter
Marcy Eckhoff Wagner says
It is so difficult to find word that can express my sadness at the loss of your loving wife, Bob, and loving Mother to you, Laurie and Jennifer. Your Mom was one of a kind for sure. She was totally devoted to her family, a very hard worker and then there was the devilish grin that she would get on her face when she was ready to play one of her practical jokes. She was one of a kind for sure. Her love and her laugh will live on in your hearts.
Marcy Eckhoff Wagner says
You are in my thoughts and prayers.