Barbara Jean Moen, age 92, formerly of Hastings, passed away on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Artis Senior Living in Woodbury. Barb was a loving wife, mother and grandmother whose animated spirit brought joy to everyone lucky enough to have known her.
Barb was born on August 26, 1932 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Robert and Mabel (Squires) Stratton and was the oldest of three siblings.
A champion of lifelong learning, Barb held multiple degrees in Library Science, Social Work, and Curriculum Development. Barb worked as the head librarian at Hastings Junior High School, retiring in 1991. As one of the founding members of the Hastings chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), she was a zealous advocate for education. Her love of learning extended to two of her favorite hobbies – reading and crossword puzzles – and Barb could often be found with either a book or crossword in hand.
Barb enjoyed traveling, and over the years she and her husband Cliff traveled extensively. Barb and Cliff shared their sense of adventure with their three sons, David, Chris and Aaron, creating a life rich in love and unforgettable adventures. One summer, she and Cliff rented a camper and took their three boys on a whirlwind journey across Europe, all five of them cozily packed in the back. Back home in Minnesota, summers often meant trips outdoors or on the road, where they created many cherished memories. This love of travel was shared across generations of family, with Barb and Cliff also coordinating countless trips with their grandchildren to visit new and exciting places.
Above all, Barb will be remembered for her boundless love for her family and friends.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Cliff Moen; son, David Moen; grandson, Dylan Moen; and sister, Judy Spencer.
Barb is survived by her sons, Chris (Snow) of Minneapolis, Aaron (Sally) of Hastings; grandchildren; Brian (Mellissa) Moen, Emily (Ben) Cornish, Sarah Moen, Hannah (Brian) Torrance, Ben Moen, Lily Moen; Gwyneth Moen; great-grandchildren, Zoe Cornish, Maddie Moen, Oliver Moen, Wesley Moen; brother, James (Betsy) Stratton of Florida; and by former daughter-in-law, Richelle Moen.
A Celebration of Life for Barb will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19, 2024 at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel, 3075 Vermillion Street in Hastings.
Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel of Hastings is handling arrangements.
