Vanessa Mae Furlow

At age 81, of Rochester, our beloved Vanessa passed away peacefully on Feb. 2, 2018.

Born Sept. 12, 1936, in Austin, she moved with her family to St. Paul, as a youth, graduating from Mechanic Arts High School. She went on to earn a degree in Cosmetology, eventually starting a successful hair styling business in St. Paul, which she ran for more than 15 years.

Vanessa is suvived by her husband of 40 years, William L. Furlow, M.D., of Rochester; three children, Troy Cook of Ironwood, Mich., Tricia Furlow of Rochester, and Michelle Peterson (Steve) of Rochester; three grandchildren, Jade Cook of St. Paul, Jordyn Peterson of Rochester, and Hunter Peterson of Rochester; and multiple stepchildren and their families. She is also survived by a brother, Robert Barton of Pine City, Minn., and a sister, Sandi Brunell (Harry) of Cottage Grove. She is preceded in death by her parents, George and Patricia Barton; as well as her sister, Beverly Pfaff; and brother, Gerald Barton.

Vanessa and William made Rochester their home for the majority of their 40 years together. They have also lived in Nashville, Tenn., and Naples, Fla. Vanessa was a member of the philanthropic women's organization P.E.O. International (Florida chapter) and the Alice Mayo Society in Rochester.

Known for her sense of humor, Vanessa blessed her family and friends with the gift of laughter. Her legacy of life, love and laughter will be celebrated in a service to be announced this spring or summer. All who knew her or her family members will be welcomed.

Special thanks to the Mayo Clinic Hospice team and the Homestead Memory Care team for their support and care of our dear mother, wife and sister.