Obituary of Barbara Ruth Hatten Spencer

Barbara Ruth Hatten Spencer died Dec. 20, 2015. Barbara was born on June 11, 1924 in Jamestown, N.D., to Leigh Rex and Margaret Olivia (Movius) Hatten. Barbara graduated from The Duluth State Teachers College, becoming an English teacher and later substituted in the Duluth Public Schools. Barbara married the love of her life, Eben Selden Spencer, in 1947. She was an active member of Glen Avon Presbyterian Church where she served as Deacon and Elder; along with many community organizations including Chapter BR, PEO; University for Seniors; Junior League; Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. More than anything, Barbara loved her family and spending time at her beloved family cabin on Rose Lake. Barbara is preceded in death by her husband Eben; her parents; brothers Rex, Ralph, Bob and Jim; and brothers-in-law John H. Spencer and Rod M. Spencer. She is survived by son Eben Jr. (Kathleen); daughters Peggy Peterson, Elizabeth Simonson and Barbara Spencer Morales; brother John Hatten; sisters-in-law who are also dear friends, Mary Spencer, Pequetti Hatten, Jessie Lee Rolf and Helen Spencer; grandchildren Jesse Rushton (Jessica), Minto Porter (Jeffrey), Brook Holmberg (Ben), Eben James Spencer (Erica), Chad Peterson (Stefanie) Thomas Simonson (Sara), Andy Peterson (Tanya), Tracey Simonson (Krista), and Mariana Morales Spencer; eight great- grandchildren (with three more on the way); many nieces, nephews, friends and special friend Verna Sandbulte. The family would like to thank the nurses, staff and friends at Westwood assisted-living for their incredible care. Barbara loved them and considered them as family. In addition, the family would also like to thank St. Luke's Hospice for the loving care she received in her final months. Barbara's smile and warm, loving presence will be missed by so many. The sunshine of her spirit lives on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched. Memorials preferred to Glen Avon Presbyterian Church. VISITATION: 11 a.m. until the 12 Noon service Wednesday, Dec. 23, in Glen Avon Presbyterian Church in Duluth, followed by 1 p.m. lunch.