Barbara Ashland

Barbara Ashland of Bloomington, Minn. passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on November 27, 2024.

She is survived by her husband of 68 years, John Ashland, Jr; children, Kent (Melinda) Ashland, Kim (Rod) Bloom, John (Sarah) Ashland and Beth (Paul) Forsline; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and sister, Mary (Vincent de Paul) McMahon.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Benjamin and Patricia Gilquist; sister, Judith Arney; niece, Molly Arney; and great-niece, Moira Arney.

Barbara graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1954 and attended Macalester College in St. Paul. John and Barbara were married February 27, 1956.

Barbara was known for her beautiful smile, kindness, generosity and immense love for her family. She and John spent many happy years at their family cabin. She was proud of her Swedish and Irish heritage, making lefse and sharing her traditions for the holidays. Barbara spent many hours volunteering at the American Swedish Institute and Woodlake Lutheran Church. Besides raising her family, she worked at Mt. Olivet Church Preschool and supported many sporting events, concerts and school functions for her children and grandchildren. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Presbyterian Homes of Bloomington and the Health Partners Hospice Team for their loving kindness, care and support of Barbara.

Memorial service Friday, Dec. 13, at 11 a.m. at Woodlake Lutheran Church, 2120 W. 76th St., Richfield, Minn. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. Memorials preferred.