Barbara Jean (Minor) Petersen

Barbara Jean (Minor) Petersen, age 88, of Arbor Vitae, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family, on September 24, 2026, in Wausau.

She was born on December 20, 1937, in Iron River, the daughter of Fredrik Minor and Ida (Hanson) Minor.

Barbara worked as a proofreader at The Lakeland Times in Minocqua for 28 years before retiring. She took pride in her work and was a familiar part of the community during her years there.

Barbara had a special place in her heart for animals, especially cats, including the stray cats she cared for. She also loved the wildlife around her home, regularly feeding the birds and watching the ducks and squirrels that visited. One of her favorite things was sitting and looking out over the lake where she lived, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the wildlife that made their home there.

Barbara enjoyed cooking and baking, especially for her family and those she loved. She also found joy in watching old comedy television shows, especially “The Carol Burnett Show” and “I Love Lucy,” as well as Hallmark movies. She had a wonderful sense of humor and was her happiest when helping others. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Fredrik and Ida Minor; her brothers, Ted Minor and John Minor; and her son-in-law, Mark Svoboda.

She is survived by her children, Sherree Svoboda, Jim (Kim) Petersen, and Patti (Kent) Bass; her grandchildren, Robb (Felicia) Svoboda, Mandi (Bob) Cahow, James Petersen, Jessy Petersen, Elise Bass, and Taye Bass; and many great-grandchildren.

Barbara will be remembered for her love of family, her sense of humor, and her compassion for animals. She will be deeply missed by her family and all who knew and loved her.

A memorial service, burial, and celebration of life will be held in Iron River at a later date.