Barbara Jean Horgen

Barbara J. (Cooper) Horgen passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, surrounded by love after suffering with a massive stoke. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched countless lives. Barb shared 55 years of marriage with her husband, Paul Horgen. Together, they built a life centered on love, resilience, and connection. Barb worked for many years as an administrative assistant at Katherine Curren Elementary School, where she also served as a playground supervisor. She was a familiar and comforting presence to generations of students, staff, and families, and her dedication to the school community left a lasting impact. Her life was marked by both profound loss and incredible strength. She lovingly carried the memory of her first daughter, Tammy who passed just after birth, and was later blessed with another daughter, who she also named Tammy (Mezzenga), who remained by her side and provided compassionate hospice care through her final days. Barb passed peacefully, taking her last two calm breaths with her daughter beside her at her home. After having several visitors at the hospital and her home including: Tammy's husband, Dave Mezzenga, his family and her grand-daughter Kiera Gressman, her Husband Levi and family-friend Doug. Barb had a joyful spirit and a deep love for life. A devoted fan of Elvis Presley, she found happiness in music, travel, and bringing people together. She traveled to nearly every state in the United States, always eager for her next adventure. She also had a special gift for planning celebrations, doing flooring, making the most amazing cakes for weddings, birthday and even making a 3-D cruise ship cake for Carnival Cruise Line. She was known for organizing memorable gatherings, including many for the Hopkins Community Center Pickleball group. Barb will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, her sense of fun, and the love she gave so freely. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion and connection that will continue to live on in all who knew her. Inurnment in a columbarium niche at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will be held privately. "May God grant you always... a sunbeam to warm you, a moonbeam to charm you, a sheltering angel so nothing can harm you. Laughter to cheer you. Faithful friends near you. And whenever you pray, Heaven to hear you." - An Irish Blessing www.washburn-mcreavy.com Hopkins Chapel 952-938-9020

Barbara Jean Horgen

July 22, 1950 - April 23, 2026

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