Barbara A. Markee

Barbara Ann Markee, 84, of Sioux City, IA, originally of Elk Point, SD, passed away on May 28^th, 2024, peacefully with family by her side.

A visitation will be 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Thursday, June 6, 2024, at Christy-Smith Funeral Homes, Larkin Chapel, 2320 Outer Drive North.  A funeral service will be 10:30 am Friday, June 7, 2024, at Christy-Smith, Larkin, with burial to follow in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Barb was born on December 18^th, 1939, the daughter of Benjamin and Emily (Stansbury) Whitlock.  Barb would meet the love of her life, Gerald Richard Markee, and marry on June 23^rd, 1956.  Together they had five children, Randy, Rita, Rodney, Robin, and Roy.  

Barb spent most of her life as a homemaker and care giver, when her husband became ill, she dedicated her time to caring for him.  It was during this time that Barb was diagnosed with Lymphoma.  A long battle that she fought and won, which was nothing short of a miracle.  As always, her strength and perseverance powered her through.  Barb would spend her remaining years creating crafts and painting with her husband, a small hobby they grew to love and the called themselves: 2 Country Peddlers.  They would take their creations to local craft shows for all to see.  She was always very proud of their crafts.  After Jerry’s passing, Barb spent her time doing what she loved: crocheting, painting, and spending time with her family. 

Barbara touched the lives of those around her with her strength, resilience, and unwavering love. Despite the challenges that she faced during her time here on earth, she remained a pillar of strength and support to all who knew her.   Barb embodied kindness and compassion. Her selflessness and generosity knew no bounds, leaving a mark on the hearts of friends and family alike. Her legacy of love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in her journey.

Barb is survived and remembered by her daughters, Robin (Randy) Fredericksen of North Sioux City, SD, and Rita (Charlie) Dorniak of Las Vegas, NV; 17 grandchildren; 29 great- grandchildren; 5 great-great-grandchildren; and her siblings, Betty, Isabel, Linda, Helen, Danny, and Sonny.

She will join in eternal peace her parents, Ben and Emma; husband, Jerry; sons, Randy, Rodney, and Roy; grand-daughter, Angie; and many other loved ones lost throughout the years. 

Pallbearers will be Micheal Tassler, Randy Markee, Jr., Allen Fredericksen, Kevin Markee, Dylan Fredericksen, and Hunter Hovde.