Barbara Sears

Barbara Faye Sears went to be with the Lord on November 8, 2014 after complications from surgery in Edinburg, Texas.

Barb was born January 15, 1938 to James and Francis VanDrunen in Sibley, Iowa. In 1957, Barb and her family moved to Lake Benton, Minnesota where she graduated from Lake Benton High School. While attending high school, Barb met the love of her life, Norman George Sears. Barb and Norm were married on September 21, 1958 and were happily married for 52 years. During their time together, Barb and Norm had three children: David, Kathy, and Annette.

Barb was always active in her church. She taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and was active in the Awana program.

Barb held many different jobs in her lifetime: bank teller, telephone operator, business owner and training officer. In 1994, Barb retired from the Forest Service to Lake Benton where she enjoyed many hobbies such as gardening, painting, needlework and knitting. Barb also liked to collect antiques, restore furniture and travel. Barb and Norm traveled throughout the United States and Europe, bringing family and friends along in their adventures.

Barbara is survived by a son, David and Jody Sears, daughter, Kathy and Nick Maas, daughter, Annette Sears; five grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; brother, Paul and Diane VanDrunen; sister, Elana and Tom Nomeland; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and other family members, along with many friends.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Norman; father and mother, James and Francis VanDrunen; brother, Jackie; two twin sisters and other family.