Barbara J. Miller
October 1, 1950 ~ March 12, 2013
Age 62 of Forest Lake, MN and formerly Racine, WI passed away peacefully on March 12, 2013 following a well-fought battle with cancer. Preceded in death by parents, Robert and Dorothy (Shoop) Stoffel and infant son, Christopher Spencer Miller. Barb will be deeply missed by husband of 41 years, Gregory S. Miller; children, Matthew L. Miller, Jeffrey R. Miller and wife, Amie, and Elizabeth M. Miller; grandchildren, Chenoa L. Miller and Spencer P. Miller; siblings, Nancy (John) Feiner, Robert Stoffel, and Patti (John) Stracke; niece and nephews, Jack Feiner, Katie Feiner, Aaron Stracke, and Nolan Stracke; Mother-in-law Mary Jane Miller, and other relatives and many many friends. Barb had a zest for life, an indescribable love for her children and grandchildren, passion for friends and family, an endearing humorous personality, and compassion to help those who are less fortunate. She spent her career in a variety of social service organizations (Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services Health East) primarily working with the aging population. After retiring, Barb dedicated herself as a volunteer for Second Harvest Heartland in support of the annual Dish Fundraising event. Barb will be honored as the Honorary Chairperson of the 2013 Dish Event, which deeply touched her. Special thanks to the entire team at Minnesota Oncology, Mercy Hospital, Allina Hospice and all of our friends who supported Barb and us through this ordeal. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12 noon, Thursday, March 14th at Mary Mother of the Church, 3333 Cliff Rd. E., Burnsville, MN with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. until time of service. There will be a gathering and celebration of Barbs life for friends and family immediately after the service. A second mass in Barbs hometown, Racine, WI, will be celebrated at 12 noon, Monday, March 18 at St. Edward Catholic Church, 1401 Grove Ave, Racine, WI with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. until time of service. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Racine, WI. The familys close friend, FR. Stan Sledz, will celebrate both masses. Memorials preferred to Second Harvest Heartland, 1140 Gervais Ave., St. Paul, MN 55109 (www.2harvest.org) or Angel Foundation, 700 S. 3rd St., Suite 106W, Minneapolis, MN 55415 (www.mnangel.org).
I was so sorry to see that Barb has passed away. She was a wonderful, frendly person that would come into my store (Memories & More) and would talk about her beautiful granddaughter and how proud she was to be a grandmother. I loved watching her make scrapbook pages for her granddaughter and then for both of them. I was proud to know her and have her as a customer. She was a wonderful woman and will be missed by all.
To Greg and family our deepest sympathies for your loss. Following Barb’s story on caring bridge brought back so many memories of the kids playing whatever seasonal sport was going on and neighborhood get togethers. Barb is now in a better place and can rest. God bless you and your entire family.
Barb was the “girl next door”…literally! How very blessed we were to have lived next door to this wonderful family for gosh…14 years! With no family in MN, Barb was my “go to” for parenting advice, always welcoming me with a smile, a hug and wonderful words of wisdom & encouragement!
Our children have grown up together and the beautiful memories are forever etched in our hearts! How blessed we are to have had this beautiful spirit a part of our lives!
The lives she has touched are as numerous as the stars in the sky. Her light will forever shine on in the lives of your children and grandchildren!
May your faith in God and beautiful memories bring you strength and comfort in the coming days.
Ralph, Joyce, Collin and Kyle Bone
To the family of Barbara, My prayers and sympathies are extended to the whole family. After Barbara’s courageous battle with cancer may she rest in peace. Deborah Coca
She was an Angel who came into our family’s lives just when we needed her and, like a soft breeze she left behind reassuring comfort and love that will never be forgotten. We have been truly blessed by you Barb. We love you.
My favorite memories of Barb are just sitting on her steps at home or visiting at each of our houses. We met almost 9 years ago when we moved into the same neighborhood. We will miss her deeply and think of her often. Love you Barb!