Barbara Marie Gatton, 63, of Columbia City, died at her home, from metastatic breast cancer, surrounded by family, at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 5, 2024.

Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on September 19, 1960, she was the daughter of Robert E. and Dolores L. (Goneau) Alter.  Growing up in the Fort Wayne area, she attended St. Henry's Elementary School and then Bishops Luers High School and graduated in 1979.

On October 9, 1993, she married Anthony Gatton, they have always made their home in the Crooked Lake area of Columbia City.

From 1983 until 2000 she worked as a Chiropractic Technician and office manager at Alter Chiropractic Center in Fort Wayne.

She is survived by her husband of over 30 years, Anthony; sons, David V. Gatton of Buena Vista, CO and Michael I. Gatton of Pendelton; mother, Dolores Alter; mother-in-law, Gwen Gatton; brothers, David (Linda) Alter of Fort Wayne, Richard (Deborah) Alter of Tucson, AZ, Dr. Stephen (Elizabeth) Alter of Fort Wayne, Dr. Jon (Nan) Alter of Leo and Dr. Michael (Alysia) Alter of Roanoke; granddaughter, Aubrey Lagunes; sister-in-law, Catherine (Steven) Conley; brother-in-law, Nicholas Gatton; bonus siblings, Ric Conner, Renee (Bill) Holley, Rhonda (Tony) Koski, Rheta Conner, Richelle (Dan) Binkley and many amazing nieces and nephews.

Additionally, she was preceded in death by her father Robert Alter; father-in-law, William F. Gatton and a son, Alexander S. Gatton.

Barbara wanted to express gratitude for all the people that touched her life with kindness and love, especially her husband, Tony who she considered her earth angel.

A family and friends' remembrance will be held on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 2 to 4 p.m. at Smith & Sons Funeral Home, Columbia City.

In lieu of gifts or flowers, please reach out to others in love and kindness.