Barbara Jean Gauger, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away on February 24, 2026, in Oaktown, Indiana, at the age of 67. Born on November 1, 1958, in Alva, Oklahoma, Barbara was a radiant light in the lives of all who knew her.
Throughout her life, Barbara was known for her compassionate heart and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Her professional life was a reflection of her caring nature; she worked at Oak Village Nursing Home, Good Samaritan Hospital, Casey’s, and Sunrise Coal. Her commitment to service was evident in her relationship with colleagues and those she served at each establishment.
Barbara’s spirit lives on through her beloved family. Her children lovingly remember her, Ryan Galligan, Aleah Adams (Gary), Katie Williams (Clint), and Meaghan Watjen (James), and cherished by her 12 grandchildren, Kara Opell (Brandon), Kolton, Aiden, Ava Galligan, Lane, Cooper Adams, Cohen, Paislee, Finn Williams, Nolan Licon, Edison, and Vada Watjen, along with her four great-grandchildren, Adeline Sechrest, Amiaya, Annalise, and Harlan Opell. She also leaves behind her siblings, Mary Ellen Crismore, Michelle Siewers (Nick), and Denis Galligan; her brother-in-law, Doug Helderman; and many beloved nieces and nephews who will miss her dearly.
Barbara joins in rest her parents, William and Gloria Galligan, her sisters, Denise Sparrow and Kathleen Helderman, her brother, Sean Galligan, her brother-in-law, Randy Crismore, and her nephews, Brad Crismore and Michael Galligan, who all preceded her in death.
Barbara’s unconditional love and generosity will remain the hallmarks of her legacy. She had a unique ability to make each of her family members feel deeply loved and uniquely special, and her guidance and wisdom will continue to inspire those she has left behind. Barbara Jean Gauger’s warmth and kindness touched many lives, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A memorial gathering will be held at the Oaktown Community Center on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Online condolences and fond memories may be made at www.fredrickandson.com. Fredrick and Son McClure-Utt Funeral Home, Oaktown Chapel, is honored to be entrusted with Barbara’s arrangements.
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