Barbara Jespersen

Barbara Gail Jespersen, the daughter of Elmer and Betty (Drentlaw) Ockerman, was born on August 23, 1946 in Cando, ND. She was baptized in Cando, ND and for a short time her family lived in Abercrombie, ND. At the age of 9 years old, Barbara and her family moved to St. Paul, MN, where she was confirmed at Maplewood Covenant Church. She graduated from North St. Paul High School in 1964. Barbara was united in marriage on June 26, 1965 to Robert James Jespersen Sr. at Maplewood Covenant Church. Two children were born to this union, Laura and Robert Jr. Barbara and her family moved to Alexandria in 1980.

Barbara worked at Peck Inc. in St. Paul for a number of years, she and her husband owned and operated Viking Bootery for five years, and then at ITW for 24 years in accounting. Barbara was a hardworking woman, who was passionate about her flower gardening, and cooking. She loved reminiscing with family and friends at her home by Lake Ida.

Barbara G. Jespersen age 70, died on Wednesday, June 7, 2017 in Alexandria, MN, under the care of Knute Nelson Hospice. She is survived by her loving husband, Robert Jespersen Sr. of Alexandria; son, Robert (Brenda) Jespersen of Carlos; mother, Betty Ockerman of Eugene, OR; grandchildren, Bethany Sawin, Emmaly Rokes, Devon Jespersen, and Sabrina Moske; great grandchildren, Harper L. Rokes; brother, Robert (Angie) Ockerman of Eugene, OR; sister, Peggy (Walid) Saleby of Eugene, OR; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Laura Beth Jespersen; father, Elmer Ockerman; step-father, Raphael Josephson.

A Celebration of Barbara's Life was held on Tuesday, June 13, 2017 at the Anderson Funeral Home Chapel with the Reverend Marilee Bergerson officiating. Interment will be Evergreen Cemetery.