Barbara Anne Minerva

Barbara was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin on September 5, 1941 to parents William and Irene Ponkow. She was the second of three children. In 1952, the Ponkow family relocated to Canoga Park, California where Barbara attended Reseda High School. This is where she met the love of her life, Frank. They were married shortly after graduating from high school and began to grow their family, eventually settling in Modesto. After raising four children, Barbara began working part-time at House of Fabrics and later, Gottschalks, spending 15 years there as a sales associate before retiring in 2009. She delighted in spending her free time crafting, engaging in activities such as crochet, painting, and sewing. A gifted craftswoman, she poured her heart into creating beautiful pieces for others. Among her treasured creations are the blankets she lovingly made for each of her children and grandchildren. These blankets, forever cherished, stand as enduring symbols of her love and thoughtfulness.

Barbara is survived by her children; Len Minerva and his wife, Jill of Ceres, Debbie Armstrong and her husband Jim of Modesto, and Michelle Seyle and her husband Michael of Carlsbad, as well as 12 loving grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband Frank J. Minerva, and daughter Mary Rose Cassady.

A celebration of Barbara’s life will take place on April 19th, 2024 at 10:00 AM in Heritage Chapel at Lakewood Funeral Home, located at 900 Santa Fe Avenue in Hughson, CA. Following the service, a graveside ceremony will be held at Lakewood Memorial Park, where Barbara will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband Frank and daughter Mary.