Rochester – Barbara Jane Sinkus, 89, of Rochester died peacefully at home on Monday, November 20, 2023.

She was born November 2, 1934, in Quincy, IL, the daughter of Maxine and William Purpus. She married William "Bill" Sinkus at St. Patrick's Church in Springfield on February 4, 1956.

Barb, along with her husband, was a charter member of the Church of St. Jude in Rochester. She remained deeply devoted to her beloved parish, volunteering and serving in many capacities, including Martha's Group, where she would help coordinate funeral hospitality.

Barb raised two daughters, Julia and Jane, and worked over the years at General Telephone Company, Sangamo Electric, and Laborers' International Union.

She and Bill shared a love of gardening and never missed a volleyball game in which their granddaughter, Kallie, played. Barb made many lifelong friends in Rochester, and enjoyed playing Bunco with a large group of ladies every month at the church. She delighted in spending time with her family and was blessed with the birth of her first great grandchild in 2022.

Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Bill; her daughter, Julia Sinkus; her parents, William and Maxine Purpus; and sisters Marcia Dirksen and Sara Graue.

Surviving are her daughter, Jane Sinkus, of Springfield; her granddaughter Kallie (Ryan) Green, of Rochester; and her great grandson, Reece Green, of Rochester.

At Barb's request, services will be private and limited to immediate family. Cremation is being accorded by Wilson Park Funeral Home, with interment at Rochester Township Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Church of St. Jude, 633 S. Walnut, Rochester.