Barbara Jean Acker

Barbara Jean (Prochaska) Acker departed this world peacefully on March 1, 2024. Loved by, cared for, and attended to by all her children, Barbara died serenely, holding the hand of her youngest daughter, with family and her grandchildren around her.

Born May 10, 1935, in North Judson, IN, ever her “hometown”, Barbara and her husband, Howard (married 60+ years) moved to Southern California in 1993 and resided in Orange County ever since. 

Barbara lived a life filled with unwavering faith and love. She will be remembered as a woman who embodied the essence of maternal devotion. Her profound faith in the teachings of Jesus and her unshakeable belief in the power of prayer guided her; a true follower of The Blessed Mother, Barbara found solace and strength in her spiritual convictions. As devout Catholics, Barbara and Howard were proudly affiliated with Lake Forest’s Santiago de Compostela church community the last 10+ years.

Barbara loved the gifts of nature – the beauty of flowers, birds and birdsong, and the magnificence of a mountain view and a snow’s fresh blanket. Barbara especially cherished the holidays and family gatherings, paying meticulous attention to every detail, always striving to ensure that loved ones felt cherished and embraced. Barbara forever yearned to have her family close by.

In her passing, Barbara leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by her four children, their spouses, and five grandchildren who will carry her memory in their hearts. In the loving embrace of heaven, Barbara joins her brother Eddie, her parents Frank and Mary, and her beloved husband Howard, as well as her four dear uncles and grandmother, all who “parented” her as a youth.

To honor her, a Funeral Service will be held at 7:00PM on March 16, 2024, in the Pavilion Room of Freedom Village, Lake Forest, CA, where Barbara and her husband lived many years. Following the service, a Celebration of Life Reception will be held for friends and family.

As we mourn the loss of Barbara Jean Acker, let us also celebrate a life well-lived—a life defined by love, faith, and an unwavering commitment to family. May her spirit continue to inspire all those who were fortunate enough to have known her.