Gilbert L. Barkei, 92 of Steward, IL, passed away at his home on Sunday, Oct.17, 2010, surrounded by his loving family. He was born Feb. 25, 1918 in Naperville, IL to Louis and Anna (Feldott) Barkei. He proudly farmed his entire life, initially in Naperville, then in Wheaton, West Chicago and for the last 40 years, in the Steward area. Gilbert married Barbara Brierton on Nov. 25, 1943 in Glen Ellen, IL. He was active in Rochelle Rotary, served on the Rochelle Community Hospital Board and was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife: Barbara of Steward; sons: Bill (Paula) Barkei and Bob (Michele) Barkei; two daughters: Pat Mustari and Peg Maxon; five grandchildren: Christine (Christopher) Larkin, Elle (Rich) Cooper, Brandon Barkei, Andy Barkei, and Kelsey Barkei; great granddaughter: Kaya Cooper; four sisters: Elaine Barkei, Dorothy (Vince) Collins, Ruth Barkei and Marilyn (Dave) Vanden Brook. He was preceded in death by two brothers: Roy and Paul and three sisters: Joan (Ed) Gilpatrick, Mildred (Howard) Hill and Bernice (Al) Schwartz.

Services will be held at St Patrick Catholic Church on Thursday Oct. 21, 2010, at 10:00 AM
with Father Steven Lange officiating. Visitation at Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle, IL on Wed., Oct. 20th from 3 to 7 PM with a Rosary Service at 5 PM with Father William, and also a visitation at the Church on Thursday from 9 - 10 AM Prior to funeral service. Memorials directed to Ogle County Hospice or to the Rochelle Area Community Foundation. Burial at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery.