Visitation Information

Barbara Jean DeSchepper

Passed away on July 23, 2025

Barbara Jean DeSchepper (Marchetti), age 95.

Born May 7, 1930 to Florence and Lucille Marchetti in Norway, Michigan. Barbara was the third of four daughters, and a loving wife to her late husband, Omer DeSchepper.

Barbara is survived by her sons, David (Katy) DeSchepper, St. John, IN and Richard DeSchepper, Ansonia, OH, grandchildren, Courtney, David Jr., Trevor, Matthew, Jacob, Andrew, Sarah and Joseph, five great grandchildren, sister, Mary Jean Bacon, San Antonio, TX, and several nephews and nieces.

Barbara grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and is a proud Michigander.  Barbara was a fierce and passionate athlete. Barbara started her skating career on the local ponds of Norway, Michigan before taking her talents to races and competitions across North America.

Barbara set 11 major speed staking titles in the 1950s and set world records in the indoor mile, ¾ mile, and ½ mile. Barbara was the only skater to hold the “big four,” National Indoor and Outdoor and North American Indoor and Outdoor titles. After retiring from skating, Barbara continued her love for the sport alongside her biggest fan and supporter, her husband, Omer. Barbara has been inducted into the National Speedskating Hall of Fame and the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame, among other notably recognitions.

Barbara was an avid fan of the Detroit Red Wings and loved watching sports of all kinds. In their free time, Barbara and Omer would frequent their local skating rink in Sterling Heights, Michigan. She loved spending time with her family and having long conversations with her grandchildren. More than anything, Barbara was proud of her children and grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Omer DeSchepper, 2017 and mother Lucille Marchetti, 1996, Father Florence Marchetti 1971.

Visitation Friday, July 25, 2025 from 3:00 – 7:00 pm with a prayer service at 6:30 pm at the Elmwood Funeral Chapel 11300 W. 97th LN. (1/2 block west of US 41/Wicker Ave. at 97th LN.) St. John.  Funeral Services Saturday, July 26, 2025 DIRECTLY at St. John the Evangelist Church – Day Chapel 11301 W. 93^rd Ave (Corner of 93rd and 41).  Mass of Christian Burial 10:00 am with Rev. Sammie Maletta officiating.  Interment Calumet Park Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be to St. Mary & St. Barbara Church in Barbara's name. (Giving | stmarybarbara). For more information 219-365-3474 or www.elmwoodchapel.com