Robin Lorraine Baril

1959 - 2019

Born on January 30, 1959, in Rockford, IL, Robin Lorraine Baril was the fourth child and only daughter of Norman Dexter and Arlyne Marie Welch. Both of her parents and her Aunt Phillis Lorraine Reynders were born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa. Growing up with 4 brothers; Randall Lee Welch, Dennis Norman Welch, Scott Richard Welch, and Gregg Edward Welch, forged Robin into a strong and fearless woman. Robin graduated from Polo Community High School, class of 1977. Shortly after, she married Jon Robert Olsen and gave birth to her only daughter, Tangeline Kay Ballester in 1979. Robin and Tangeline moved to Crookston and while there Robin studied computer programming at the University of Minnesota, Crookston.

Robin went on to marry Scott Allan Baril in 1986 and became a step-mother to Wendy Baril Haston, Weston Allan Baril, and Michael Keith Baril. In 1987 they welcomed their first son, Kyle Joseph Scott Baril, to the family and completed their family in 1991 with the birth of Stevan Scott Baril. A vivacious and loving mother, Robin always welcomed a house full of neighborhood kids and on occasion, strangers in need. She had the biggest heart and would put others before herself time and time again. Whether it be a full plate, a warm bed, a helping hand or even just a shoulder to cry on, Robin was always there for those in need; whether they asked for help or not. As a business owner and landlord she wasn't afraid of the relentless and often times dirty work required to provide for herself and her family. When she wasn't working, she enjoyed going to concerts, reading, cooking, fine dining, beaches, horses, and dancing like nobody was watching. But most of all, Robin enjoyed watching the Vikings win on Sunday and spoiling the wonderful grandchildren she loved with all of her heart, especially her fur babies, Skippy and Buttons.

Robin peacefully passed away Friday, Oct 4th, with her family by her side in Austin, TX. Her grandchildren; Eveny Marie Baril, Evan Andrew Baril, Israel Alexander Ballester, and Avé Estrella Ballester (her namesake) will grow up knowing how much she loved them. Her father, Norman was ready to take her hand. As for the rest of us, we will endure our pain and live everyday with the hope of making her proud. Her life was far too short, but those blessed to have known her will long remember her firecracker personality and heart of pure gold. Rock on Momma Bird, we love you!

There will be a celebration of life on Friday, Oct. 18th, from 5-9pm at the Crookston Eagles Club Hall at 105 S. Broadway, Crookston, MN 56716. Guests are encouraged to wear purple (her favorite color) or sport your Viking's gear.