Barbara C. Callahan

Barbara C. Callahan, 86, of Peoria, passed away at 5:45 a.m., Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at Cornerstone Healthcare Center in Peoria Heights. 

She was born January 6, 1936 in Peoria to Francis M. and Clara B. (Andres) Evans.  She married Dr. John A. “Jack” Callahan on July 19, 1958 in Peoria.  He died December 17, 2000 in Peoria. 

She was also preceded in death by her parents, and one sister Marilyn Schachtrup. 

Surviving is her daughter, Jacqueline (Pat) Klaus of Eureka; one sister, Christine Spaeth of Lombard, IL; one granddaughter, Nicole (Thomas) Elder of O’Fallon, MO; and twin great-grandsons, Charles and Jonathan Elder. 

Barbara was a member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Peoria. Barbara was a loving, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was a woman of style and was always the life of the party. She had a quick wit and could always make you laugh. In her earlier years she loved boating on the Illinois River, painting, needlepoint and playing bridge. Her second home was in Vero Beach Florida where she loved long walks and collecting shells, sea glass and spending time with her family and friends. She was an avid music lover and up until her last days she would always have a song to sing. 

Per Barbara’s wishes, cremation will be accorded.  Argo-Ruestman-Harris Funeral Home in Eureka, is assisting the family with arrangements.  A private committal service was held at Resurrection Mausoleum.   

Memorials may be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America (pva.org).

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.argoruestmanharris.com.