Barbara Ann Bradtke

Barbara A. Bradtke. 6/5/1932 – 5/20/2020, died peacefully in her sleep while recovering from hip surgery. She bravely battled dementia for the last 6 years of her life, living in her own home as was her wish, in the care and companionship of her son Mark, and his wife, Mary Rita. Born to Leo S. Koch and Hilda M. Koch in Ft. Wayne, IN, Barb was one of five children. She was preceded in death by brothers Jerry and Dick Koch as well as sister Gert Brames, and is survived by her eldest brother, Leo Koch of Ft. Wayne. She married Walter Bradtke in 1957; they later divorced. Together they had four children, Steven J. Bradtke, Mary K. Bradtke, Mark A. Bradtke, and Kevin E. Bradtke. Barbara is survived by her children as well as her grandchildren, Thomas J. Bradtke, Molly J. Bradtke, and Nick A. Mokgalo. Barb grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. She developed a frugal and caring nature during this period that she maintained throughout her life. She was an amazing caregiver to her children and always helpful and kind to others in need. Barb graduated from the nursing school at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ft. Wayne, in 1953 with a Bachelors of Nursing, and a specialty in pediatric care. She was an active nurse for over 30 years, only taking time out to care for her young children before returning to work. The majority of her career was spent in the pediatric unit at Saginaw’s St. Mary’s Hospital. Barb was dedicated to the children under her care, even though it was often difficult and sometimes heartbreaking work. Throughout her life, she always found delight in playing with and watching children. As a single parent, Barb guided all four of her children through college, sending them to Michigan State University, the University of Michigan, and the Rhode Island School of Design. Barb was a Master Gardener who spent countless hours planting an eclectic mix of common and exotic plants to achieve a dramatic effect. She loved caring for her plants, and felt happiest in her garden. Barb also had an active social life which included visiting with long-time friends, talking, dining out, and playing cards to all hours of the night. Like her mother, Barb was an avid reader who devoured novels from a wide range of genres, but with a particular emphasis on mystery and science fiction. She successfully passed this love of reading down to her children (and grandchildren), who have strained their backs moving book boxes from one home to the next. Barb was the first Nurse Detective in history!