Barbara Anne McCloskey (Mateju)

Barbara Anne McCloskey (née Mateju) passed away on January 11, 2025, at the age of 76. She was born on August 1, 1948, in Milwaukee, WI, to Charles and Luella Mateju. Barbara was the beloved sister of Richard and Karen. Known as "Barb" to her friends and loved ones, she was raised in a Catholic household, attending Catholic school through high school.

In her early adulthood, Barb worked as a waitress and later joined her first husband in running a local bar. After many years in the hospitality industry, Barb transitioned into a career in sales, where she met the love of her life, John McCloskey. The couple married in Las Vegas, NV, and spent many happy years together.

Barb and John eventually made the decision to leave the cold Wisconsin winters behind and relocate to Oviedo, FL, where they could enjoy the warm sunshine year-round and visit Disney World as often as they’d like with their annual pass. In Oviedo, Barb became deeply involved in her community, volunteering for the Citizens on Patrol initiative.

A lifelong learner, Barb was an avid reader, often finishing multiple books a week. She had a thirst for knowledge and loved testing her trivia skills by watching Jeopardy! each evening over dinner. Barb was also an active member of a local book club, attended Bible study, and sang in her church choir.

In addition to her intellectual pursuits, Barb found joy in creative expression. She took up painting, producing many beautiful works, including hand-painted Christmas cards that she sent to loved ones each year. Her home was filled with her artwork, a testament to her talent and the pride she took in her creations. She continued painting until health issues prevented her from doing so, but her legacy of creativity lives on in her paintings.

After the passing of her husband John in 2022, Barb moved to Tacoma, WA, to be closer to her grandchildren and other family members. Though she only lived in Tacoma for a short time, she quickly became a beloved figure in her new community. Barb led walking groups on her scooter, always ready with a quick wit or a kind word for those around her.

Barb’s greatest passion was mentoring young people. She had a special gift for connecting with kids and young adults, offering a listening ear and wise counsel as they navigated the challenges of growing up. Her non-judgmental nature made her someone young people trusted and respected.

Barb is survived by her sister Karen (and Jerry), her sister-in-law Ursula, step-children Ryan, Chad and Tammy, her Grandchildren, Nephews and many close friends who will all miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her husband, John McCloskey, her brother Richard, and her parents, Charles and Luella Mateju.

A memorial service will be held in Oviedo, Florida on February 8th at St. Lukes Lutheran Church at 4:00pm.