Obituary of Barbara Jean Ahlers

Ahlers, Barbara Jean (Steinhagen), age 84, of Minnetonka, passed away July 22, 2024.

Preceded in death by husband William of 34 years and Curtis Puncochar, son-in-law.

Survived by children, Linda (Dennis) Blair, Gerald (Monica), David (Maria), Thomas (Cheryl), and Susan Puncochar, grandchildren Kathryn, Joseph, Timothy, Richard, Jason, Jess, Cecilia, Anna, Lindsey, William, Emily, Jack and Davis and 9 great-grandchildren. Barb was raised with 9 loving siblings on Henry and Marge Steinhagen’s family farm in Waconia, MN.

The funeral is Tuesday July 30, Immaculate Heart of Mary in Minnetonka. Visitation 10am, Service 11am, Lunch 12pm. Private burial at Ft. Snelling later. Service streaming is available on the IMH website https://ihm-cc.org. Memorials preferred to Park Nicollet: https://www.healthpartners.com/foundations/park-nicollet/foundation-form/

Barb and Bill were married in 1959 and moved to Washington, DC where she worked at the Pentagon while Bill was in the service. After the service they moved back to MN to raise their family.

Barb truly had a heart of gold, she was incredibly hard-working, strong, and resourceful. She was proud of her siblings and their shared dedication to family. Barb lived a life of service and always put others above herself.

Barb volunteered hundreds of hours to people and organizations: she was highly involved in church fundraisers, banquets, and other church activities. She had many talents such as sewing beautiful quilts, embroidering towels, refinishing furniture, and caning chairs. She volunteered at Park Nicollet and Stages Theater for years. Barb loved playing cards, camping, baking, travel, and all family time.

Even though dementia affected Barb’s fun-loving personality for the last part of her life, she will be remembered most for her generous and kind soul to all those she encountered. She will be missed!