Barbara “Barb” M. Knezevich (nee Blazevich)

Lovingly known as “Barb,” age 92, of Highland, formerly of Hessville, IN, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family, on Thursday, January 8, 2026.

She is survived by her devoted children, Michael (Barbara Friedel) Knezevich; Sandy (Jim) Berklan, and Cindy (Dean) Koliboski; her precious grandchildren, Matt (Katie) Berklan, Ryan Knezevich, Nick (Amy) Berklan, and Elayna Knezevich; along with many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins.

Barb was preceded by her beloved husband of 65 years, Emil Knezevich; her parents Ann and Michael Blazevich; and her loving brother, Michael “Mitch” (still living, Margaret) Blazevich.

Barb was a proud graduate of Hammond High School. She worked for McDonald’s for 15 years, where she became affectionately known as “the morning drive-thru lady,” spending her days working and greeting customers with her warm personality. She was a long-time member of the Croatian Fraternal Union 170 and served as an officer with Indiana Harbor Junior Tamburitzans. Barb was also involved with the Red Hat Society, and the St. James Woman’s Guild.

Barb and Emil enjoyed traveling extensively together, creating memories that she treasured deeply. Above all, she loved spending time with her grandchildren. She was a passionate Notre Dame football fan, famously known as the “tailgate bookie,” and was well known for her beloved apple slices, which became a family and friends favorite.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Solan Pruzin Funeral Home, 14 Kennedy Ave., Schererville, IN. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, January 16, 2026 DIRECTLY at St. James the Less Catholic Church, 9640 Kennedy Ave, Highland, IN with Rev. Gregory A. Bim-Merle officiating. Barb will lie in state at the church Friday morning from 10:00 AM until time of service. Burial to follow at St. John / St. Joseph Cemetery, Hammond, Indiana.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. James Highland Food Pantry.

Barb will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her kindness, humor, and the love she shared with all who knew her.