Gertrud Barkeit

Gertrud “Missy” Barkeit was born in Aurich, Germany on January 3, 1939, to Kurt Wolf and Anna Klee. There she attended school before beginning her early work as a knitter and seamstress.

On May 4, 1962, she married Hans Guenther Barkeit in Munich, Germany. Shortly after, they moved to the United States to build a life and raise a family. Missy embraced her new home with determination and curiosity, teaching herself English — a skill she proudly credited to watching soap operas and, later, learning from friends. Missy’s creativity was one of her greatest gifts. Her talent for baking blossomed into a passion, and she became known for her extraordinary cakes, some adorned with handcrafted roses. She cared deeply for children–her own and others–as she spent approximately 23 years working in childcare. In 1986, she faced the end of her marriage, supported by all who loved her.

In the years that followed, Missy supported herself via restaurant work, adored by coworkers and regular customers alike who appreciated her warmth, humor, and energy. The 1990s brought her a new love, Leonard Moody, and together they shared more than 20 meaningful years.

Missy’s hands stayed busy creating beauty. She crafted Christmas decorations, prom dresses, skating competition outfits, and countless other pieces reflecting her skill and imagination. She also found joy in simple pleasures - being loved by dogs, sitting in front of bonfires, enjoying the outdoors, feeding birds (red cardinals were her favorite), and tending to her garden and yard. At home, she was a fierce SkipBo player, a lover of visitors, and a devoted fan of Hallmark movies. Her life was defined by generosity, humor, an energetic presence, and the constant care for others.

Missy was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Ludwig Wolf; and her brothers-in-law, Peter Salmann and Fred Henning.

She is survived by her daughters, Sandie Barkeit and Bridget Johnson; and by her grandchildren Ricky, Chris (and his wife Ashley) Johnson, Amanda and Tommy Duncan. Great-grandchildren Victoriya, Justin, Travis, Wyatt, and Riley Johnson.

Gertrud is also survived by her sisters: Heidi Salmann, along with Heidi’s son Micheal Salmann, his wife Elka, and their daughter Michelle; as well as Gerda Henning, along with her sons Holger and Rainer, and her daughter Tina.

She will be missed by many, including countless numbers of “Missy’s kids” and their extended families.

The family wishes to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Inova Fairfax Hospital. Their patience, compassion, and empathy toward Mom — and toward all of us who remained by her side — were deeply appreciated. Their care brought comfort during a difficult time, and we are forever thankful.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Boys Town, one of Missy’s favorite charities.

Donations by Mail

Make checks payable to:

Boys Town

14100 Crawford Street

Boys Town, NE 68010

Online Donations

• Website: https://www.boystown.org/ways-to-give/tributes-and-honorary-donations

• Please check the box labeled “Dedicate this donation” to honor Missy.