Barbara Joan Kortte

Barbara Joan Kortte, of Libby, Montana, passed away peacefully on Sept. 21, 2024, at the age of 82. 

She was born on Feb. 19, 1942, in Nigden, Arkansas, to Frank Atichison and Lara Mae Bailey. Barbara spent her early years in Little Rock, Arkansas, before moving to Montana, where she lived the rest of her life, mainly in Libby.

Barbara married Douglas Leroy Kortte from Troy, Montana on Feb. 26, 1963. Together they shared a love for the outdoors, from swimming and camping to fishing and berry picking. 

After Douglas' passing at a young age, Barbara raised their daughters, Lynnette and Jeanette, as a single mother, supported by her family and community.

Barbara worked as a server in her youth, a substitute teacher in her early adult years and later found her calling as a Certified Nursing Assistant, caring for others until her retirement. 

Her passion for helping others extended beyond her professional life, as she became a foster mom to her grandsons, a grandmother to all their friends and a friend to many others.

Her hobbies included knitting, crocheting, reading and playing video games, especially Final Fantasy, and Sims 4. Her love for family and friends, her crafting skills, and her deep-rooted faith in God were constants throughout her life.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Jeanette, grandchildren David Prior and Paul Kortte, and her great-grandchildren Malayeka, Telsa, Dolia and Odessa. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Douglas, daughter Lynnette and siblings Dana and Brownlee.

A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 7 at the Libby Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home. Online condolences and memories may be shared by visiting www.schnackenbergfh.com. 

Donations to help cover home renovation debts are appreciated in lieu of flowers. Donations can be made at https://gofund.me/4972a095.