Obituary of Barbara Norenberg

January 9, 1943 – December 16, 2023

This is the story of Barbara Ann Norenberg. Barb was a wonderful woman that was loved, is missed, and will always be cherished. Grandma Sugar, as she was called by many, was an amazing mom, grandma, sister, and friend.

Barb’s story began on January 9, 1943, the oldest child of Richard and Mildred Carlsen. Barb was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She was a great sister and enjoyed the family summers at the cabin on Cedar Lake in Annandale and helping at Camp Courage. At age 10 she contracted polio -paralyzed from the neck down- God answered her parents’ prayers and she turned out okay. Her school years at South High she spent going to sporting events and school dances, playing the marimba and the glockenspiel in the marching band, she was a member of the National Honor Society. It was at school where she met her first husband, Barry Wood. They were married in 1963 and blessed with four children. After their marriage ended, she met Donald (Butch) Norenberg and fell head over heels for him. They were married in 1993 and spent ten joyous years together.

Barb was a wonderful mom, opening her home to all her children’s friends. She spent many years in the neighborhood singing group, singing, dancing, and sewing costumes. She enjoyed bowling at Nokomis Lanes, quiet days in the garden, writing and painting. Frogs and lighthouses were her thing, along with all Minnesota sports teams especially the Twins, Vikings, and Gopher football. She led girl scouts and boy scout’s groups on many fun adventures. She loved spending time with her children and grandkids. Barb worked at the Painters Union Local 386 as a secretary/bookkeeper for many years. Barb and Butch spent time traveling in their camper, making frequent stops to Kiester, MN where she would eventually move.

Barb had a positive outlook on life, with her faith and a smile on her face she overcame many obstacles with grace.

She will dearly be missed by her children: Barry Wood Jr., Michelle (Scott) Robinson, Michael (Cindy) Wood; 13 Grandchildren, 10 Great- Grandchildren; Siblings: Karen Isaacs, Richard Jr. (Sharon) Carlsen, Don (Mary) Carlsen, Darlene (Tom) Umphrey; Former Husband: Barry Sr. (Jacqueline) Wood and many other family and friends.

She was preceded in death by: Husband, Butch; Son, James; Great-Grandson, Gage; Parents, Richard, and Mildred; Brother-In-Law, Lonnie and Nephew, Paul.

Funeral services will be Saturday, January 27th, 2024, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 605 W State Street, Kiester, MN 56051. Visitation 11:00, service 12:00.