Obituary of Barbara Jean Halvorson

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Barbara Jean Halvorson (Anderson), who entered the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on February 6, 2024 following a valiant battle with pancreatic cancer.  She was born on September 2, 1950 in Minneapolis, the daughter of the late Loyd and Lorraine Anderson.  On June 23, 1972, Barb married her best friend Gary Halvorson. Barb and Gary, who had their first date on April 1, 1967, were blessed with over 51 years of marriage.

Besides her loving husband Gary, Barb is survived by one brother, William (Rochelle) Anderson; nieces Britt Anderson (Logan Morrow) and Jodi Bares (Cory Behl); nephew Erik (Bre) Bares; and grandniece Raegan.

Barb lived life to the fullest. She loved the outdoors – gardening, fishing, hiking, skiing, and traveling.  Over the years, she loved and lovingly cared for each of their six Norwegian Elkhounds. Barb had a special appreciation for animals and always enjoyed naming birds, chipmunks, and any type of critter that would come to visit in her yard.  Her zest for life was contagious.  She had a kind heart and a tender spirit, which will be dearly missed.

Following graduation from Minneapolis Henry High School in 1968, Barb earned a degree in Education from the University of Minnesota.  Before retiring in 2014, Barb worked at her alma mater, for 42 years – all of it in the College of Continuing and Professional Studies.  She was a passionate advocate for the College’s core mission of providing adult learners and degree-seeking part-time learners with access to the UMN resources.  “THE FRIEND’S OF BARBARA HALVORSON SCHOLARSHIP” has been established to support tuition, fees, and books for non-traditional students who are non-degree or undergraduate degree seeking students in the College of Continuing and Professional Studies (CCAPS) at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. memorial contributions may be made to:  https://makingagift.umn.edu/give/fund.html?id=25265

As per Barb’s request, there will be a private burial service at Swanburg Cemetery, Crow Wing County MN on a future date.