Barbara Jean Holtz, 72, of Sycamore, IL, passed away on March 31st, 2023.

Born November 1st, 1950 in Pullman, Washington, she was the daughter of John Hubert Dunn and Mary Magdalene Dunn.

Barbara had a love for education, earning her Master's Degree in Art History from NIU in 1981. She was awarded various educational honors during her time on campus including being a member of Outstanding Young Women of America in 1978 and 1979.

She and her husband, Michael Holtz, were married in 1973. Together, they founded a successful woodworking business in 1978 where Barbara served as Vice President for 45 years. Through the early years of marriage, they accomplished many things together, though Barbara's greatest joy was when she became a mother in 1982. Her love for education and nurturing nature shined through as she volunteered at the grade school for her two young children. Barbara was a woman with pure devotion to her family which only grew with each new grandchild that was welcomed into the world. She was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling, going to art shows, and never missed an opportunity to attend a grandchild's event.

She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Michael John Holtz; 1 son, Nicholas Holtz and his wife, Tina Holtz; 1 daughter, Jacqueline Reiswitz; 2 sisters, Patricia Maveus and Catherine Johannsen (Alfred Johannsen); 5 grandchildren, Fiona, Calista, Benson, Logan, and Elliana; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her father, John Dunn; mother, Mary Dunn; and 2 brothers, Daniel Dunn and David Dunn.

Barbara's visitation will be on Monday, April 3, from 5:00-7:00pm at the Butala Funeral Home, 1405 DeKalb Ave., Sycamore, IL 60178. A funeral mass will be at 10:00am on Tuesday, April 4, at The Church of St. Mary, 322 Waterman St., Sycamore, IL 60178.  The burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery.

To write a special memory or to sign the online guest book, go to www.butalafuneralhomes.com