Barbara Ann Sitek

Barbara Ann Sitek, 86, passed away peacefully at home on May 20th, 2026. Barb was born to Freeman and Lila Powell on June 6th, 1939 in Drayton, North Dakota. She is survived by friends, neighbors, and family including husband James and daughters Alana and Connie. She is preceded in death by her parents, brother, and daughter Cheryl. Prior to retirement she worked at Strong Funds where she made many friends and spoke of her coworkers fondly.

Her loving husband James was always the most dedicated caregiver to Barb during her illness with Alzheimer’s, and cared for her with unwavering devotion and tenderness. He attended to her every need, always making sure she had her favorite flavor of nutrition shake prepared at just the right temperature — never too cold and never too warm. He carefully monitored the comfort of her room, even adjusting the furnace so it was always exactly the temperature she preferred. He also made sure her favorite television programs were always on, surrounding her with the familiar comforts she loved.

Everyone who’s life was touched by Barb knew her as a kind, sweet soul with a love for all animals and people. She loved growing beautiful flowers in her backyard garden and she was a formidable opponent in Scrabble. Barb loved crossword puzzles and crafting. She made many stunning quilts, needlepoint pictures, and latch hook rugs over the decades that always gathered tons of compliments. Whether it be a coworker, friend or family member, she always was willing to lend an ear to anyone who needed one. She was a wonderful confidant and trusted friend. Barb had an indelible sense of humor. Her humor will be sorely missed by all of those who ever got to experience the joy of surrendering to her contagious laughter.

Barb loved spending time in nature and going on outings with “Her Lany”. She loved going to the Zoo, Lapham Peak, Concord Zoo, Schlitz Audubon, and Fowler Park. Driving around and singing songs was her favorite thing to do. As she would often say during her car rides with her daughter Lany, “We’re just having a grand ‘ole time, aren’t we!?” Dean Martin’s “That’s Amore” and “Mambo Italiano” were two of her favorite songs to sing in the car.

The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all of her caregivers for their unwavering support; Especially Sam, Lisa, Natalie, Kathleen, Carol, Hannah, Alexis, Melissa, Milo and Ellie.

Barb would tell you, “Don’t be sad for too long. Go do something nice for yourself. And…. See ya later, Alligator!”

In lieu of flowers, memorials to an animal shelter of your choice in Barb’s name are welcome.

Private family services were held.