Barbara Gene Tangwall

Passed away on October 15, 2023 at Open Arms Assisted Living in Duluth, MN. She was 98 years young.

Barbara was born March 30, 1925 in Hibbing, MN to Fred and Alice King. After attending Assumption Catholic School, she graduated from Hibbing High School in 1943. Barbara then spent one year at Hibbing Community College, then transferred to the University of MN- Minneapolis for 3 years working towards her degree in accounting. Upon returning to Hibbing, she worked at US Steel for 15 years - 7 years in the accounting department, then 8 years as the secretary of the legal department. As co-workers used to say to her, “We need more Barb Tangwalls working here!”

While working at US Steel she met Melvin Tangwall, and they were married in 1963. Barbara was Melvin’s constant companion as her husband was transferred to Duluth, Ironwood, MI, Pittsburg, PA, then finally returning to Duluth. She spent the last 15 years of her 37 year marriage assisting her husband with his chronic conditions, along with her mother who needed care as well.

Barbara was a true patriot. She loved her country and all those who so generously served it. Her spare time was enjoyed in her gardens that she tended to with her loving touch. But the most important thing Barbara held close to her heart was her Catholic Faith and being a parishioner of St. Johns Catholic Church in Duluth. She loved her faith and all that Jesus taught, the Holy Mass and all church gatherings. We will miss Barbara’s beautiful smile, joyful attitude and peaceful demeanor.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin; her brother, Fred; and two nephews, Fred Jr and John. Surviving nieces and nephews are, Alice (Patrick) Marsh, Sue King, Barb (Gary) Lind, Mary King and James (April) King.

To all employees of Open Arms Assisted Living, we would like to graciously thank you for all your loving care for Barbara in the last year. She was ever so grateful of all your assistance, just as we are.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Barbara will be held at 11am on Friday, October 20, 2023 at St. Johns Catholic Church, 4230 St Johns Ave, Duluth, MN with a Visitation beginning at 10am.