Barbara Rose O'Connor

Passed away on July 6, 2021 in Saint Paul, Minnesota, at the age of 88.

She was born in Pasedena, CA, and lived in many cities until her family finally settled in Eureka, California, where she graduated High School, in 1950. Most recently Barbara had lived in Woodbury, MN, Lewiston, ID, and Livermore, CA.

Barbara married her high school sweetheart, Bill (William F.) O’Connor, in 1952. They had three children together; Bill Jr., Julie, and Patty. Bill worked for the Federal Aviation Administration and the family was transferred to many cities until 1968 when they settled in Livermore, California. While living in Livermore, Barbara volunteered at St. Michael’s Catholic School teaching PE to 3rd and 4th graders, bake sale fundraising, and driving students to games, scouts, and field trips. In 1979, Patty, their youngest left for college and they decided to move to Lewiston, ID where Bill would serve as Control Tower Chief, until retirement in 1979. Unfortunately, shortly after retirement, Bill was diagnosed with cancer in 1984 and died within a few months. Barbara was devastated with the death of her husband, her one-true love.

Barbara loved creating a welcoming home for her family. She was a stay at home mom, who was a meticulous housekeeper, passionate about cooking, baking, sewing, gardening, house painting inside and out, decorating and most of all shopping. Her house was her rock where she found safety and well-being, keeping it beautiful.

Barbara lived in Lewiston, ID for 35 years. She volunteered at church with funeral lunches, fundraising, participating in St. Mary’s league, choir, and serving on parish council. She was also a frequent Red Cross blood doner most of her life.

Preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, William F. O’Connor, and son William F. O’Connor Jr. who died in 2004. She is survived by 2 daughters; Julie Moore (Richard) and Patty Harbour (Rick). Grandchildren; Ben (Guillermina), Kristina (Patrick), Steve (Rashmi) and John. Great grandchildren; Ashley, Connor, Felix, and Emily.

Throughout her life, Barbara tried hard to be positive and supportive of her family. She will be dearly missed by her family, but will live forever in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, November 6th at 11:00 am at St. Pascal Baylon Church in St. Paul. Visitation will take place from 10:00 - 11:00 am.