Barbara Jo Heath

Heath, Barbara Jo Walker

Age 77, born April 14, 1948 in Decatur, IL and passed away on Jan. 2 at home surrounded by family.

Barbara married the love of her life, Michael Earl Heath on February 16, 1964. Though marriage and motherhood became her reality early in life, Barbara was determined to achieve her high school diploma, which she did in 1966.

In 1976, Barbara and Michael moved with their two daughters to Minnesota. They created many fond memories at the swimming pool, and made adventures of camping, fishing, and biking. She would often say to her girls "let's go get lost", and they would pick a new park or thrift store to explore. Some of Barbara's favorite trips were cross country skiing in upper Michigan with Michael.

Barbara was an accomplished fiber artist. Though her primary focus was weaving, she kept those that she loved clothed in beautiful hand knit sweaters, hats, and mittens. She bought her first loom in 1983 and became well known for her fine linens, apparel, and magnificent rag rugs. She taught weaving for many years at Depth of Field in Minneapolis, and also later at a studio she shared with many dear weaving friends. She won several awards - including State Fair Blue Ribbons, and was an active member of the Weaver's Guild of Minnesota. She made many friends in these activities and valued them all.

Barbara is preceded in death by husband Michael, parents Floyd Arthur and Mary Elizabeth (Rusk), siblings Winifred Anne, William Arthur, and Diane Lynn Stanley.

Survived by daughters Michelle Heath, Allison (Tom) Buie, siblings Susan (Steve) Simpson, Kathleen (Mike) Reitzel, and Bob Walker, brother-in-law David Stanley, grandchildren Emily (Gayle) Hanson-Miller, Lauren (Swan) Anderson, Brynn Hanson, Walker (Emily) Buie, and Mary Buie (Jake Neumann). She was very proud to have 4 great-grandchildren Brayden, Holden, Lyla, and Claire. Barbara leaves too many cousins, nieces, and nephews to name.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Weaver's Guild of Minnesota.

Visitation will be on January 8, 5-7 PM at Bradshaw Funeral Home, 3131 Minnehaha Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406