Barbara R. Peterson
February 16, 1954 ~ September 22, 2012
Barbara R. Peterson (ne Evjen), age 58, of Bloomington passed away Sept. 22, 2012. Preceded in death by beloved husband, Rick, and her father and father-in-law. Survived by daughter, Andrea Peterson (Jim Huang); son, Jesse Peterson; mother, Naomi Schmidt; sister, Becky Osunkoya; neice Lola Osunkoya; mother-in-law, Rita Peterson and many brothers- and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Barb was born in Minneapolis in 1954. She attended South High School and went on to the University of Minnesota, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Psychology. Her intelligence and love of learning were evident throughout her life. She immersed herself in one hobby after another, pushing herself to perfect her skills. Over the course of her life, she was an astrologer, chef, cake decorator, dollhouse maker, vegetable and flower gardener (with award-winning roses), parakeet raiser, artist, political junkie, and enthusiastic traveller. Most of her working years were spent as a Human Resources Assistant for Customs and Border Patrol (formerly the Immigration and Naturalization Service). However, her chief occupation for 20 years was stay-at-home mom to Andrea and Jesse. She did this job with incredible devotion and love. A celebration of Barbs Life 7 PM, Wed., Sept. 26th at Roberts Family Funeral Home, 555 Centennial Dr. SW, Forest Lake with a gathering of family and friends beginning at 5 PM until time of service.
In looking up Barb, I found the obituary. I was so surprised and saddened to hear of her passing. I recently found her address and was trying to get contact her. Becky- i have such good memories of you and Barb. All those Minnehaha church activities- youth group, GMG, Trout Lake Camp, sleepovers at your house. An Easter hardly goes by without me remembering staying overnight “ironing” our dresses. I don’t why I remember it so well, but I do. And one time we were taking communion and she accidentally took a gigantic piece that hadn’t been broken. We started laughing and couldn’t stop. Barb Kinkel graciously talked to us afterwards and she saw it and knew why were laughing so hard! And then it was her platinum nail polish and the bronchitis she had for oh, so long! Her picture looks so good, exactly like she did in Jr. High. I wish I had known…. My sympathies go to you as her friends and family.
Worked with her a year. She had a beautiful presence and always greeted me with a smile. May God touch your family in this time.
I will always remember Barb for her smile and encouraging, positive nature. She was a caring person and a great co-worker. My prayers are with her family during this difficult time.
I first met Babara in the summer of 2008 while touring in Europe. She was a warm and friendly person who enjoyed spending time with her daughter, and obviously loved travelling and meeting new people. My deepest sympathies to Andie and the rest of her family.