Barbara "Skip" Carpenter

September 8, 1939 - October 27, 2018

Barbara Kay “Skip” Carpenter passed away in her home, October 27, 2018. Born to Lawrence Raymond And Pauline Ellen (Johnson) Vanaman in Gary, Indiana on September 8, 1939. She married Danny L. Carpenter on February 19, 1966. He preceded her in death on November 24, 2016. Skip was a proud member of the North Judson class of 1957. She graduated from Methodist Hospital School of Nursing receiving her RN degree on 1960. She continued her education earning a Bachelors and Masters degrees in education. Skip taught Vocational Health at North Judson-San Pierre High School until retirement. Together with her husband Danny, they operated Carpenter’s Oil Co. for 50 years. Skip enjoyed golfing, bowling, cooking, making crafts, jams/jellies and entering her favorites in the Starke County Fair. She was a “spirited” treasure hunter at auctions and yard sales. Skip looked forward to the holiday seasons and volunteering at the Christmas Store. She was passionate about nature and an avid birdwatcher, continuously photographing and taking videos of all wildlife. She always enjoyed her excursions to Vegas or local casinos with friends and family. Lady Luck seemed to be always on her side. Skip took pleasure in following and attending all of the many activities of her children and grandchildren. She also loved spending time and laughs with her beloved sisters, Raelene, Joann and Susie, and numerous friends. She had a witty sense of humor and there was never a dull moment. She is survived by five children; Warren (Rosalyn) Gappa of Prattville, AL, Daniel (Stacey) Gappa of Bellingham, WA, Jeanine (Gappa) Huey of Brookston, IN Dana Carpenter and Jill (Greg) Bejes both of North Judson, IN. She was blessed with fourteen grandchildren. Skip was preceded in death by; a brother Larry and an infant sister Bessie Mae. A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held from 4-8 PM CT on Thursday, November 1, 2018 at the O’Donnell Funeral Home, Inc. North Judson, Indiana. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be given toward the Northern Indiana Community Foundation (Pioneer Cemetery Transformation Foundation) or The Starke County Humane Society.