COLUMBUS
Barbara Ann Bilz, 88, of Columbus went to live with Jesus on Wednesday, January 5, 2022, at 8:45 p.m. at her home.
Mrs. Bilz was born on August 31, 1933 in Jennings County, Indiana, the daughter of Stewart Charles Sears and Dorothy Ann Farlow. On Friday, April 13, 1956, in Scottsburg she married Robert L. Bilz.
Mrs. Bilz had worked as a Bank Teller at Irwin Union Bank at Eastbrook Plaza, and later went on to become a realtor, eventually obtaining her Broker’s license. While in real estate she worked at Carl Williams Reality and various other real estate companies in the community. She attended St. Peter’s Lutheran Church and was a member of her ladies’ bridge club for over 40 years. Mrs. Bilz was a big supporter of, and loved being involved with anything her children were involved with; helping at her children’s schools, participating in PTA, being a Brownie leader and room parent. She was an avid jewelry and antique China collector. She always had a tremendous love for children and was very strong in her faith. Barbara was known for her devotion to family and extraordinary kindness.
Survivors include her husband of 66 years, Robert L. Bilz of Columbus; children, Darlene (Richard) Radcliff of Mishawaka, Stephen (Ashley) Bilz of Freetown, Suzanne Kanehl of Columbus; grandchildren, Nick (Jami) Radcliff, Christian Radcliff, Niles Radcliff, Erin Anne Bilz Kanehl, Robert Alexander Bilz Kanehl; brother, Phillip Sears; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Eddie and Stewart Sears.
The funeral service will be on Thursday, January 13th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church with Reverend Mark Teike officiating. A live stream of the funeral service may be viewed at the church website http://stpeterscolumbus.org/.
Family and friends may call for visitation on Wednesday, January 12th from 5-7 p.m. at Barkes, Weaver &Glick Funeral Home at 1029 Washington Street in Columbus, and also from 10:00 a.m. till time of service on Thursday at the church. Burial will follow at Garland Brook Cemetery with a lunch planned afterwards for anybody that wishes to attend. The family also asks that everyone please wear a mask if planning to attend.
In memory of Mrs. Barbara A. Bilz memorial contributions may be given through the funeral home in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association, Prevent Child Abuse America, or Our Hospice of South Central Indiana.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the Bilz family and a video tribute viewed at www.barkesweaverglick.com.
