Dorothy Jane Barker (nee Dilgard), age 87, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2025. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and nurse, Dorothy lived a life filled with compassion, music, and deep love for her family.
Born on July 15, 1937, in Rochester, New York to Frank and Gertrude Dilgard, Dorothy grew up in a close-knit family that nurtured her passion for music and caring for others. She pursued her calling by earning a Bachelor of Science/Nursing degree from Northwestern University, laying the foundation for a meaningful career in pediatric nursing.
Dorothy began her professional journey at Evanston Hospital before becoming a longtime nurse for local pediatrician Dr. E. Rezvani. Her gentle demeanor and heartfelt dedication made her an invaluable presence to countless families throughout the community.
For 65 years, Dorothy shared a loving marriage with Allan R. Barker. Together they built a warm and welcoming home, She is lovingly remembered by her children: Ellen Steckbar (James Poole), Nancy Storm, Donald Barker, and Kara Hay.
Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Christopher (Irene) Steckbar, Kristen (Jake) Cavanaugh, Brett Steckbar, Matthew Steckbar, Patrick Storm, Andrew Storm, Eric (Sydney) Storm, Michelle Storm, Allan Hay, Kimberly (Kyle) McHugh. Great grandchildren: Scarlett and Logan Steckbar.
Dorothy found great joy at the family’s lake house in Wisconsin and loved traveling with friends and loved ones. An accomplished pianist and avid bridge player, she brought joy through both melody and camaraderie.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Donald.
Memorials under Dorothy’s name may be made out to either the Arlington Heights Nurses Club Lending Closet, 1801 W. Central Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005 or Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, 1234 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.
Family will be receiving guests on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 1234 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004, followed by a memorial service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Dorothy’s life was a beautiful symphony of kindness and connection- may her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
