Barbara Jeanne Willis

1938 - 2023

Barbara Jeanne Willis

1938-2023

Barbara Jeanne Willis, age 84, of Grand Rapids, MN, passed away Friday, December 8, 2023, at Majestic Pines, Grand Rapids, MN.

Barbara was born in 1938 in Hibbing, MN to William and Florence Barkla. She graduated from Greenway High School in Coleraine and later graduated from Hibbing Community College. On August 22, 1957, she married Richard Willis in Coleraine, MN, whom she met on a bus ride. Due to Richard's military service, they relocated, but eventually returned to Coleraine and purchased a house in front of Barbara's childhood home. She worked for Independent School District 316 in the business office. Barbara was actively involved in various organizations such as being a Girl Scout Leader. In her free time, she enjoyed engaging in various hobbies such as making quilts, knitting, crocheting, and baking which she was known for her homemade bread and pie crusts.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Richard; son-in-law, Joseph O'Brien; and beloved dog, Isabelle.

She is survived by her daughters, Debra Michelson, Tammy O'Brien, Paula (Manuel) Jasso, Pamela (John) Zehowski; sister, Judi Kessler; 10 grandchildren, Betsy (Krys) Olson, Richard (Mandy) Olson, Jonathan (Christina) Olson, Aaron Frahm, Stephanie (Paul) Linstad, Ana (Matthew) Cruz, Cody (Allison) Willis, Heather (Tanner) O'Gorman, Kaitlyn (Nick) Anderson, Lily (Tanner) O'Brien; 15 great grandchildren plus one on the way; and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 16, 2023, at 10:00 AM at Rowe Funeral Home, Grand Rapids, followed by the 11:00 AM memorial service. Rev. Mark Wagner will officiate. Burial will be at Lakeview Cemetery, Coleraine, MN at a later date.

Arrangements are with the Rowe Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Grand Rapids, MN. To sign the online guestbook or send condolences visit www.rowefuneralhomeandcrematory.com.