Barbara Jean Pischke, 80 of Algonquin, died peacefully, February 10, 2026.
It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara J. Pischke (nee Runge) on February 10, 2026. At the age of 80, she was called home to the Lord after a long, courageous battle with cancer. In her final days, Barbara was lovingly surrounded by her family.
Barbara was the beloved wife of Randy for 57 years; loving mother of Jennifer (Jim) Schramek, Jeff (Jenny), Jorie (Matt) Steffen, Jill (Dan) Lipnisky, Jaime (Steve) Turza; dearest “Gramma” of Emily (Marcus) Matelski, Adam (Grace) Pischke, Kendal Schramek, Camryn Pischke, Brooke Schramek, Grace Steffen, Jack Steffen, Danielle Lipnisky, Aidan Lipnisky, Charlie Turza, Elle Steffen, Will Turza, Camden Lipnisky and Aubrey Turza; cherished sister of Nancy Kudlo and the late Tommy Runge; dear sister-in-law, aunt, great-aunt, and friend of many.
The true embodiment of a “social butterfly,” Barbara’s joy and vitality for life shined through on a day-to-day basis. Whether it be with one of her many dear friends or a new acquaintance, Barbara could strike up a conversation about anything. New people around Barbara did not remain strangers for long, as she made friends everywhere she went. While she was known for her chit-chat, Barbara especially loved talking about her favorite things: shopping, food, and her family. An avid bargain hunter, she found great deals on jewelry and other knickknacks from her favorite stores ranging from Von Maur to TikTok Shop, and she would excitedly describe her new bling to her loved ones. She loved the nickname her grandchildren gave her: “Gramma Sparkles.” Barbara perfectly encapsulated this name with her glamorous taste and her delight in a bargain.
Barbara was a talented cook and relished in sharing this talent with her family and friends in the form of delicious home cooked meals, crowd pleasing appetizers, and tasty desserts. She was known for her exceptional sugar cookies, which were carefully crafted in elaborate shapes related to any occasion and decorated with colorful, tasty icing. Barbara also enjoyed going out to eat as much as she cherished cooking. She loved a diverse spread of restaurants and cuisines, ranging from Asian food at Big Bowl to pork chops at Perry’s. It is important to note her appreciation for more casual dining as well, as she was fond of grabbing a bite at Costco and Buona Beef, too.
While Barbara enjoyed talking about these things she loved, nothing meant more to her than her family and close friends. She enjoyed playing dominos with her friends, exchanging stories and laughter during the games. Barbara was also a sports enthusiast as she proudly watched her children and grandchildren play on fields and courts. Thanks to the influence of her children and grandchildren, she even came to love dogs, and she could be found doting on the family pets at parties and gatherings. Speaking of which, Barbara welcomed every reason to celebrate, sharing her joy and vitality at the many family events held throughout the year. Barbara loved announcing each and every family member’s birthday, anniversary, and graduation on Facebook and would spend a considerable amount of time finding just the right picture to post. She also embraced the smaller holidays, mailing physical cards as gifts to her 14 grandchildren for Valentine’s Day and Halloween each year. Barbara especially cherished the whole month of September, happily celebrating her birthday all month long. She enjoyed sharing her passion for life any chance she got.
Her greatest joy was her large family, lovingly built on the foundation she and Randy created together. Her marriage to Randy was one marked by loving banter and wonderful memories. Not a day went by when Barbara didn’t talk about how much her children or grandchildren meant to her. Her family was arguably her most important achievement in life.
Despite having battled several illnesses over the years, Barbara remained strong and fought until the very end. Her loved ones strive to carry on her legacy of a life centered on family, faith, and sparkles.
Visitation will be on Monday, February 16, 2026 from 4-8pm at DeFiore Funeral Home-10763 Dundee Road, Huntley. A second visitation will be on Tuesday from 9am until the time of th 10am Mass being celebrated both at St. Catherine of Sienna Church. Entombment will be at St. Michael the Archangel Cemetery in Palatine.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Catherine of Siena School (West Dundee, IL) in memory of Barbara.
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Our "girl's club" will never be the same without our dear Barbara! I'm sure Cheryl Gunnlaugson was in the welcoming line to greet her! God bless her and take good care of the many loved ones she left behind.
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Wishing you strength, comfort, and peace during this difficult time.
Randy and family , Our deepest sympathies for the passing of Barbara. When remembering Barbara we will think of her sweet hellos and “ how are you doing?” She was always thinking of others . We enjoyed spending so many family gatherings with her and we will miss her dearly . Nancy and Al Osiecki
Your mother and I grew up in Hegewisch. I would see her once in awhile in Schaumburg. I spoke with her last!just before she. Overdue. She was a special lady!
Mrs. P 🥺 I'm going to miss you immensely. You were the kindest Itasca "mom" growing up and STILL continued to be so kind and sweet to me and my family. I'm going to miss you checking on me and my mom and dad. Thank you for being you. Rest in Peace 🕊️
I will always remember Aunt Barbara’s soft-spoken way and sweet laugh. What a beautiful remembrance highlighting her love of her family, friends and bargains! I remember she was giving me tips at Nick’s wedding on how to find fancy clothes for a bargain! I have so many cherished memories of family gatherings and how warm and welcoming she always was. Sending you all love and strength during this difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear of Barbara's passing. She was such a nice and friendly person and one of my favorites. I will miss her very much She was just great to everybody.
Hugs to all from distant cousins in Stevens Point, WI, we have memories from your visits to our farm & many visits from Elmer & Stephie Runge❤️
I met Mrs. Pischke when Danielle and I played volleyball together. I remember her being so sweet and kind, which are traits she passed on to Danielle and Mrs. Lipnisky. I’m so sorry to see such an amazing family have such a big loss. Sending lots of love and prayers your way!
We will miss our "clubster" very much. She always brought so many stories and laughter to our luncheons. The Pischke family was very blessed to have such a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. Rest in peace dear friend.
My heartfelt condolences to the family. I am a high school classmate of Barbara's and have wonderful memories of those years together with her. I live out of state now but whenever I was in town to visit family, I tried to get together with Barbara for lunch. May she rest in peace in the arms of Our Lord.
Barbara was one of my best buddies in high school. She was dedicated to her friends and always full of joy. May she rest in peace with our Lord by her side. Sincere condolences to her loving family.
With fond memories of attending 4:30 Mass beiof St. Catherine of Siena Parish in West Dundee.
My deepest sympathies from the Ray family on Judson Street. Although it has been more than 40 years since I last saw Mrs. Pischke, I still remember her warm smile and what a kind, caring mother she was. The fact that she remained in touch with my mom so many years after your family moved away speaks volumes about what a truly wonderful lady she was.
My sincerest condolences to the whole family. Sending warm wishes of peace love and strength at this time.❤️🙏🏼
Rest in peace auntie Barbara. Love you 💕
I will always remember you Barb, 50 years of friendship was a true treasure. I know God will take good care of you the same way you took such good care of your family. You and Randy were a forever team another treasure for you both. Rest In Peace my friend