Obituary of Barbara VandenHeuvel

Barbara VandenHeuvel, age 88, of St. Paul, Minnesota - a caring wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away suddenly on 7 December 2020.  The final cause of death was unknown.  Her loss was completely unexpected and the family is shocked and deeply saddened.

Barb was born in 1932 in Ellendale, Minnesota. After graduating from Ellendale’s high school in 1950, she went on to marry her beloved husband, John, the same year.  The couple had three children over the years and they taught them skills for life. Her children and grandchildren remember her as a kind mother who encouraged them to pursue their goals and who always had special artisan cookies and coloring books.

She dedicated her life for the next 70 years to being a fantastic wife and wonderful mother. Barb excelled at encouraging the members of her family and supporting them through the many passions and difficulties of their lives.  She made it her mission to improve the lives of others and to pass on her skills and joys.

Barb was a passionate quilter / needle artist and when she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and kindness, she could be found in her sewing room practicing fabric magic.  She loved spending time in the kitchen, creating delicious and varied ethnic meals direct from the garden.  She penned a cookbook of her favorite recipes which she passed on to her family and friends.  We will miss her greatly.

Barb was predeceased by her parents and brother. She is survived by her husband, her children, seven grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved and touched deeply.

The family would like to thank staff and caregivers at Woodbury Villa for their care and dedication in the final weeks of her life.

A private family “Celebration of Life” will be held, in lieu of a service. 

Condolences may be sent to:

Family of Barbara VandenHeuvel

35 Three Rivers Drive

Hastings, MN  55033. 

Donations can be made in her name at:

Women’s Foundation of Minnesota

105 Fifth Avenue South, Suite 300

Minneapolis, MN  55401-6050