January 30, 1948 - November 13, 2024
It is with much sadness that the family of Barbara Lynn Koffel announces her passing. She is preceded in death by husband, Jack Koffel; loving companion, Tom Hopkins; and step-daughter, Sandra Kilby (Koffel). She is survived by her children, Philip Koffel (wife, Fouzia), Liz Koffel, step-children, Barb Steinhauser (Koffel), Deb Gaugler (Koffel), Doug Koffel (wife, Joyce); granddaughter, Nurbayt and countless other loving family and dear friends. She was an avid adventurer and curious, dedicated photographer.
She is dearly missed.
Please click here to view a livestream of Barbara’s service.
Memorial Service
Thursday, November 21, 2024
2:00 PM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Visitation
Thursday, November 21, 2024
12:00-2:00 PM
Morris Nilsen Funeral Chapel
6527 Portland Ave. S.
Richfield, MN 55423
Dear Phil and Liz and family;
Thank you again for informing us of your mom’s unexpected passing. Sean and I and Gabby and Pierce, and my mom, Suzanne Winter are so heartbroken and devastated for all of you. As you know, your mom, was like an adopted mom to me since I was very young and the only kid on the block until you guys were born. I was always invited over for dinner. I’ll never forget Barb making my favorite meal, her spaghetti pie. Our parents and families weren’t just neighbors but all of us were close and you two, Phil and Liz and I grew up together and played with each other. I was the oldest, and as I became a teen, I babysit for Phil and Liz. Your mom and Dad (Jack) were always so loving, supportive and kind not only to my parents but also me.
Thankfully and gratefully, I have decades (over 30+ years) of fond memories growing up next door to your family. Playing in the sprinklers, going so high on my old swing set with Phil and Liz that the in the ground pegs started coming out of the dirt. Getting stuck in the high snow banks of our yards and our moon boots falling off and getting stuck. Going sledding between our yards on our hills. My dog Spunky getting stuck underneath your folks shed after chasing a rabbit and not having her come out for over 2 hours. The stories and fun and adventures we had were endless. We’ve also had a lot of sad and heartbreaking times together that made us grow closer. The tragic passing of my father (Bill Winter) and your dad, Jack. Even after you guys grew up and moved out of the house, it was always so nice to see you again when you would visit your mom so we could all catch up.
Sadly, after your mom sold her house next door to me, in 2022, she and I and my family remained very close to her. Texting weekly, sometimes daily to check in and getting together for our girls nights were best!! Barb and I and sometimes my mom and our other lady friends on our block had lots of wine while we whined. HA!
My family and I miss Barb terribly and we can’t even believe she’s gone. On behalf of myself and my mom and my family, we will forever cherish our memories of Barb, your amazing mom, and our dearly loved and very close family friend. She will be forever in our hearts.
Again, please accept our deepest condolences on the loss of your amazing mom. We are here for you. We love you all. Please let us know if there’s anything we can do to help support you during this difficult and painful time. We are only a phone call, text or short drive away. Phil and Liz, both of you will always be an important part of my life, just like your mom was, and your dad, too. We aren’t only old neighbors but family! Sean and I and our kids will see you at the visitation and memorial service. God bless you please take care!!
All of our love,
Carmon, Sean, Gabriella (Gabby) and Pierce
My dearest friend with the most delightful laugh!…
Like a beloved sister …deeply missed❣️
It’s hard for me to summarize a 40 plus year as Barbs neighbor next door. I watched her have and raise Liz and Phil. So many memories with her and Jack. I always admired her skill with flowers and plants. Her ability to take the perfect photo. What a wonderful kind hearted woman. We shared many laughs and tears in our “women’s neighborhood group”. God bless you Barb, you were so loved. Suzanne Winter