Barbara M. Johnson Svenkesen

Barbara M. Johnson, age 93, of Eagan, MN, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at Kingsley Shores Senior Living in Lakeville, MN.

Barbara was born on May 23, 1931, in Fargo, ND, to Willie and Margaret (Corbet) Svenkesen. Her family later moved to Wahpeton, ND, and then to Detroit Lakes, MN. After World War II, she met and married the love of her life, Lowell Johnson. Together, they built a life as a military family, moving throughout the country before settling in Alabama and eventually in Eagan, MN.

A dedicated and accomplished professional, Barbara earned her master’s degree in accounting and worked for the Department of Justice and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. She was the first person to receive the Commander’s Award for Civilian Service at Ft. Rucker, AL. Despite her impressive career, her greatest joy was her family. She was a loving and devoted matriarch, always offering guidance, kindness, and unwavering support.

She is survived by her sons, Russ and Roger Johnson; grandchildren, Dan and Jennifer; great-grandchildren, Amber, Kyle, and Spencer; sisters, Caroline Briggs and Lois Olefke; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lowell; her parents; and her brothers, Butch, Walter, and Bill Svenkesen.

A funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Henry W. Anderson Mortuary, 14850 Garrett Ave, Apple Valley, MN 55124, with a visitation one hour prior to services at the funeral home. A private burial will take place at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Breast Cancer Awareness and Wounded Warriors Project.