Barbara June Creek

Barbara June Creek, 79, of Greenfield, IN, passed away on April 8 2022.  The visitation will be on April 14, 2022, from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, with service at 2 pm at Flanner & Buchanan, 10722 East Washington Street, Indianapolis, IN, 46229.  The family has requested casual attire, bring a story, a smile and laughter to celebrate the Barbara’s wonderful life.

Barbara was born February 9, 1943, to the late Leo A. and Josephine Pearl (Moore) Hunt in Colorado Springs, CO.  Her family moved to Lansing Michigan, where she enjoyed family time with her younger siblings, Jerry and Sandra.  Barbara had many stories of the fun she had with her loving parents and siblings, although sometimes they got into mischief.  Barbara graduate from High School then attended Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.  While at college she was on the Women’s Recreation Association, an intermural sports team that enjoyed volleyball, basketball, tennis, badminton, bowling, and softball.  Barbara always talked about how much fun she had with her friends at the University.

In 1965, Barbara walked down the aisle to marry her sweetheart, (the love of her life) Dennis L. Creek from Kentucky.  The happy couple were married 59 years fabulous years.  They continued to love and care for each other over the years (stayed together, sharing everything), raising two daughters, Kimberly Ann, and Kelly Jo Creek. The couple used their wit and sense of humor to spice up life most every day.  They also had a large network of neighbors, and friends, many still live right down the street. They shared the love for living in the country with fresh air, the sounds of nature and Dennis setting out a garden every year.

While raising her two daughters, Barbara worked at Merchants National Bank for 30  plus years.  The bank was purchased in the 90’s by National City Bank (now known as PNC). She worked as the Vice President of the Savings Department for most of her time, but also worked in Military Banking Division, which took her to Germany for several months. She ended her career at the Carmel Branch.  She made many wonderful friends that likely have many “banking stories” to share.

For women back in those early years, she faced challenges that women today don’t have to experience.  As a trend setter, Barbara worked through each challenge with grace and a smile.  She was taught by her mother, Josephine, to never speak ill of any one and always find good in others.  She did this daily, her whole life!  Barbara would tell the story of how back in the 80’s the computers (to run the bank) filled up an entire FLOOR.  She would remark how it was so uncomfortable having to walk around in those heels in the computer room let alone wear dress suits and panty hose. The heat of the computers was a lot, but add in heels and panty hose (ladies-yuck! Thank goodness life has changed).  Barbara always looked amazing from head to toe, placing a special broach/pin on her jacket and endured as the work world changed.

Barbara retired in her mid to late 50’s from the Carmel Branch.  Her team of bankers sent her off to retirement with warm wishes and love.  Barbara then embarked on her second career, QUILITING!  A passion that she had up until her last days.  She and her best friend, Lisa Kibbe, had many adventures during the last 25 years.  Barbara and Lisa attended various quilting retreats over the many years together, traveling to Louisville and Shipshewana to name just a few.  Every year, the pair would retreat to  Lisa’s Cabin, lugging in their sewing bags & machines, fabric, a crockpot of chili and stories to share as they created beautiful quilts!  Lisa’s husband Guy would remark, “How long are you going to be gone!?” …when Lisa would tell him,  “it will be 3-7 days.” ….of quilting fun : )

The two ladies also enjoyed going to the activities at Back Door quilt store located in Greenwood, IN. It was girl’s days (for sure!) twice a month as they attended the “Block of the Month” class and “First Saturdays” togethers, then had lunch.  Barbara learned everything there was to know about quilting and had a BLAST exploring the variety of fabrics & colors, quilting tools, and new kits that were always coming into the store.  Barbara and Lisa not only shared their quilting passion, but stories about their children and grandchildren (and for Barb-GREAT GRANDCHILDREN, too!).

Barbara made each member of her family at least one quilt, and several for other loved ones, too.  She was meticulous with the lines, cuts, and putting the fabric together.   She ventured into working with wool, embroidery, pillow covers, and so much more!  She found her joy with quilting.

Barbara enjoyed flowers, particularly tulips were her favorite.  She would say that she struggled to plant them, so her family would bring her fresh cut ones, or she would grab some up for herself while at the local store.  She enjoyed the quiet of her backyard, watching the hummingbirds fight over the nectar in the hanging feeders.  She would sit on the porch, sip a hot cup of coffee, and listen to the sounds of nature.  Sometimes she would jazz it up and listen to the Sirius Radio app her daughter set up for her. She loved the music from her teens and 20’s era.

Barbara is survived by her loving husband, Dennis L. Creek: two daughters: Kimberly (Michael) Kieffer and Kelly Creek. Five grandchildren, Ashley (Justin) Thomas, Brian (Celeste) Creek, Franklin Webb, Nicholas Webb, and Angelina Webb. Two step-grandchildren, Katarina Kieffer, and Sean Kieffer. She was also blessed with six great-grandchildren, Kensie Leisure, Aiden Creek, Ryker Creek, Atlas Creek, Charlie Thomas and Colston Thomas.

She adored everyone!

We welcome anyone to share and add comments or stories about her life!

A time of visitation will be held on Thursday, April 14, 2022 from 12PM-2PM with a funeral to begin at 2PM all held at Flanner Buchanan – Washington Park East, 10722 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46229. Friends and family are encouraged to dress casual and comfortable.

Entombment to follow at Washington Park East Cemetery.