April 17, 1932  -  December 6, 2025

Barbara Ann Schonlau Lokke, was born April 17th 1932 in Omaha, Nebraska. Her elementary school education was at Blessed Sacrament, and she graduated from St. Mary's High School in 1950. Not long after that, she met Henry John Lokke. The two were married in 1954, shortly before Henry’s completion of service in the U.S. Army. Together they raised three children, John Frederick, 1956, Marilyn Marie, 1959, and Eric Francis, 1962. 

Barbara was a devoted and enthusiastic gardener. As the children grew into adulthood, Barbara’s interests in her community and city burgeoned. She developed a deep interest in the history of Omaha, a pursuit that led to her serving as a docent at the General Crook House, at Fort Omaha in Florence. Barbara became a well-known tour guide working for Allied Tours as a Step-On Guide, based out of the Omaha Visitor’s Center in downtown Omaha. She developed an extensive collection of printed paper artifacts, postcards, notices, and other artifacts of Omaha, related to historic people, places, and events. 

Beyond Omaha, and with Henry often joining her, were memberships and involvement with the Sons of Norway, the Isaak Walton League, Minnesota Transplants, Questers, and the Victorian Society. Barbara was a lifelong Catholic, with a deep, unwavering conviction and devotion that led to her serving as an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist at St. James Catholic Church as part of her 40-plus year attendance and involvement there. She is remembered as a ready, capable and eager Bridge player, her prowess at the game renowned everywhere she played. From her humble beginnings in north Omaha, through her presence and participation in church, travels, and interests, and contributions to the above-mentioned groups and activities, Barbara made friends everywhere she went. She gave to all she met a gentle love, undivided attention, with kind words and thoughts for all those around her. Every one of us is fortunate to carry a bit of Barbara in our hearts and souls, and Omaha is a better city for her having graced its streets, structures, and prominences, and citizens.