Barbara “Barb” Ann Holien

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Barbara “Barb” Ann Holien, who peacefully left this world on June 26, 2025, surrounded by family at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Nursing Home. Barb was born on December 20, 1942, in Rushford, Minn., to Marion and Maynard Benson. She graduated from Peterson High School in 1960. October 1, 1960, Barb married the love of her life and lifelong partner of 64 years, Robert “Bob” Holien and together they shared a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. Barb was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend whose feisty personality and warm heart touched everyone she met. Barb was a member of Grace Lutheran Church. She was on the school board, a score keeper, and a bus driver for Peterson schools. She was a Peterson summer rec coach. She was an excellent cook, caterer and enjoyed cooking for Semcac Senior Dining for many years. She will be remembered for her enthusiasm when watching her family play sports, especially softball. She loved cheering from the sidelines and announcing games with spirited humor during Gammel Dag and Whalan Fast Pitch tournaments. Her love for sports, animals, and her family defined who she was and left a lasting legacy. Known for her fiery personality, quick wit, and infectious smile, Barb brought light and energy to all she encountered. A passionate lover of horses, Barb enjoyed riding and caring for her animals, often finding peace in their companionship. She also loved her dogs dearly; her pets were an important and cherished part of her life. 

She was a proud mother of Mary (Duane) Miner, Jeff (Cheryl) Holien, Debbie (David) Brink, and Jim (Jane) Holien; and a devoted grandmother to her many grandchildren: Melissa (Nick) Hall, Zachary (Liz) Miner; Bailey, Megan, Jacob Holien; Courtney (Brandon Berge) Brink, Jolene (Chase) Youngblood, Danielle (Nick) Corcoran, Dillen Brink; Kenai, McKinley, Denali Holien; and great-grandchildren: Morgan, Nichole, Evelynn, Domanick, Destiny, Brennan, Aleyna, Boston, Urijah, Bennet and Londyn. Her family brought her immense joy and pride, and she cherished watching them grow and thrive.

Barb is survived by her beloved siblings who held a special place in her heart: Susie (Bill Grindland) Norby, Margie (Bruce) Blixt, John Benson and Bruce Benson; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Her love for her family was boundless, and she treasured every moment spent with them. Although she has left this earthly journey, her energy, love, and unmistakable spirit will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace, you will always be loved and remembered.

The family would like to thank Good Shepherd Lutheran Nursing Home and St. Croix Hospice for their loving care.

A service and celebration of Barb’s life where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and the remarkable person she was, will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, in Peterson, Minn., on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 11 a.m., with visitation starting at 10 a.m. until time of service.