Barbara Ann Madden

Barbara Ann Madden, age 78, of Chanhassen, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and her extraordinary care team at SummerWood and Optage Hospice.

Services will be held in Little Falls, MN, on Friday, September 11, 2026, with a visitation from 9:00–11:00 a.m. at Emblom Brenny Funeral Service, a Catholic Mass at St. Mary’s Church at 11:30 a.m., followed by a church luncheon.

Barbara (Barb) was born on March 24, 1948, in Buckman, MN, to Lawrence and Cecelia Otremba. She grew up in Little Falls, MN, and attended St. Francis Catholic High School, graduating in 1966.

Barbara was united in marriage to Michael (Mickey) on June 21, 1969, in Little Falls, MN. Together, they made their home in Maple Grove, MN, and were blessed with three children: Christopher, Martha, and John.

Throughout her life, Barbara worked for 26 years at NAPA Genuine Auto Parts in St. Louis Park, MN, as a Customer Service Manager. She was known for her strong and loyal work ethic, exceptional service, and ability to train and mentor others. After retiring from NAPA, Barbara chose to live with and take care of her mother, Cecelia, in Little Falls, MN, for 18 months, ensuring her mother could continue to be cared for at home, surrounded by family. Barbara then went on to work for the Hilton Garden Inn in Maple Grove, MN, for six years as their Guest Services Representative. She thoroughly enjoyed greeting guests and welcoming them into the lobby.

Barbara dedicated several years of service to the Osseo Quarterback Club, supporting many aspects of the non-profit organization where her sons played high school football. Barbara engaged in church ministry, serving for many years as a Confirmation Teacher and Eucharistic Minister at St. Thomas the Apostle in Corcoran, MN, and Our Lady of Victory in Minneapolis, MN.

Barbara enjoyed spending time on Sugar Lake in Annandale, MN, for over 35 years with her family, teaching her children and grandchildren how to catch and clean fish. Barbara was an amazing home cook and baker, making everything from scratch. Frosted cut-out sugar cookies at Christmas time were among her family’s most cherished holiday memories around the kitchen table. Her summer vegetable garden out back each year was worthy of a blue ribbon. Barbara knew how to host a crowd, especially for a Green Bay Packers football game, where her famous teriyaki chicken wings were often served. Barbara always had delicious meals and desserts ready for whoever was visiting, especially during the holidays. Being an avid Green Bay Packers fan, Barbara attended several football games at Lambeau Field with her husband Mike, her children, nephews, and grandchildren. Barbara loved to travel, visiting her children’s families out of state and cruising Alaska. She was an avid card player and especially enjoyed playing 500, having spent over 20 years in Card Club with the neighbor ladies. For decades, Barbara regularly played Scrabble, often for an entire weekend when visiting family or when family came to town.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest love was her family, and she especially treasured her time as Grandma Barnie. She will be remembered for her generosity, hospitality, guidance, and the gift of loving and serving others.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 57 years, Michael; children Christopher (Emily), Martha Newell (Dan), and John (Michelle); grandchildren Patrick, Emma, Lillianne, Jacob, Johnathan, Matthew, Noah, and Grace; sisters Kathy Krupke, Joyce Beadling (Rich), and Joan Dubbin (Dan); brothers Larry and Tim (Sherrie); sister-in-law Patt Bolduc (Len); many nieces and nephews; extended family; and numerous cherished friends. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Cecelia Otremba; and her niece, Shannon Gode.