Barbara Jean (Flood) Lutzow, 88, passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026, in Rockford IL after a short battle with cancer at home with her family by her side. She was born in Rockford on December 10, 1937, the daughter of W. Clifford and Evelyn W. (Larson) Flood. She married Maynard E. Lutzow on May 7, 1955, where they remained married for over 50 years until his passing on February 13, 2012.

Barbara's journey through life was as vibrant and varied as the many careers she embarked upon. Outside of her career, she was a long-time parishioner at Taber Lutheran Church and later moved to Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church.

An avid traveler, Barbara loved to explore. Her trips to Florida and Arizona were highlights, as were several cruises and trips to Hawaii and Costa Rica. She loved adventures closer to home, including day trips that brought her peace and happiness. Beaches and pools were her sanctuaries, places where she found solace and delight. A particularly memorable journey was a train ride to California with her sister, a testament to her adventurous spirit and love for shared experiences.

Gardening was more than a hobby for Barbara; it was a passion. Tending to her yard and nurturing plants brought her immense joy and a sense of accomplishment. She was a true hobbyist, engaging in puzzles, knitting, and sewing with patient creativity. She loved cards, games and Yahtzee. In her later years, Barbara embraced diamond art and found pleasure in the quiet contemplation of reading.

She cherished her moments with loved ones especially at Christmas time where cooking the family favorites became tradition on Christmas Eve. Above all else, her four grandsons held a special place in her heart, as did her Great Grandchildren. Family gatherings and shared laughter were the treasures she held most dear.

She is survived by her children, Debbie (Dean) Reid, Michael (Ilana Beth) Lutzow, and Pamela (Dana Strate) Lutzow; her grandchildren, Justin Reid, Shaun (Stephanie) Reid, Trevor (fiancé Delany) Lutzow, and Jarrett (Paige) Strate-Lutzow; her great grandchildren, Landon Niedzwiedzki and Lottie Reid; her brother-in-law, Denny Johnson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded by her parents, her husband, Maynard, her sisters, Judith Chatfield and Mary Johnson, and her nephew, Ronald Malloy.

A visitation will take place from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 28, 2026, with a Funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 2715 S Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61109. Burial at Highland Garden of Memories. Memorials may be made to the family. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.