About This Memory Space
This page was created for Barbara Hawke Velonis's family and friends as a place to remember them, to share stories, and to keep their memory close in everyday life.
It is cared for and added to over time by the people who knew them, and everyone is invited to contribute, whether that is a story, a photo, a few words, or a simple note.
Many families visit places like this not just once, but again and again, especially on quiet days or meaningful anniversaries. This page is here for those moments, wherever you are.
A place to return to when you want to feel close again, to remember a moment, or to leave a few words for others to read. Over time, it grows through the voices of everyone who knew and loved them.
Light a Candle Growing
Light a candle to honor Barbara Hawke Velonis's memory. Each lighting keeps their memory burning bright for 23 hours.
Candle lit burns 23 hours. Come back and light it again after 23 hours to keep the memory burning.
Limited to 5 lightings per hour to prevent abuse.
Memory Wall Growing
Stories, photos, and memories shared by people who knew Barbara Hawke Velonis. This is the heart of this space—a collection that grows as more people contribute.
No memories posted yet. Be the first to share a story or memory.
Life & Legacy
Barbara Hawke Velonis devoted her life to nurturing creativity in others, fostering community ties, and cherishing the bonds of family, leaving behind a vibrant tapestry of artistic passion and civic engagement.
Born to Donald and Betty Hawke, Barbara pursued her artistic talents early on, honing her skills at John Herron Art School before earning a B.S. from Indiana University. Her path wove together education, local involvement, and a steadfast commitment to her surroundings, where she thrived in neighborhood associations, political circles, and church communities, always advocating for connection and improvement.
For many years, Barbara inspired students as an art teacher across various local schools, igniting young minds with her enthusiasm for creative expression and helping shape the next generation's appreciation for the arts.
Photos of Barbara's Life
Family & Loved Ones
Barbara's world revolved around the unwavering affection she shared with her devoted husband, Chris, and the joy derived from watching her daughters Julia A. Degan and Katherine L. (Ryan) BeMiller flourish. Her four grandchildren—Andrew, Alyssa, Chloe Sophia, and Lucy Hope—brought endless delight, filling her days with the simple pleasures of grandparenthood and reinforcing the gentle, nurturing spirit that defined her relationships.
Remembered by Friends & Family
Tributes from acquaintances and kin alike capture Barbara's essence as a beacon of artistic fervor and neighborly kindness, underscoring how her enthusiasm for community and education resonated deeply with everyone she encountered.
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