Barbara Jean Corcoran

Barbara Jean was born on October 21, 1943, in Eau Claire, WI to Philip and Amie Froiland. The eldest of 4, Barbara’s love of life and adventurous spirit was apparent from an early age - from cheerleading and playing the saxophone in High School, to working in downtown Minneapolis, and then landing a job as a stewardess. While working for the airlines, Barbara met her love, Bart, and soon began another fulfilling chapter in her life as a beloved Wife and Mother of 4.

As a Wife and Mother, Barbara ran a tight ship; she was strong, decisive and organized, all while showing her family unconditional love and unending care – even in the face of what likely felt like millions of loads of laundry, attending countless sporting events and activities, participating in church and school functions, making trips to the ER...the list was long. She managed it all with beauty and grace.

Beginning in 1995, Barbara was blessed over the next 10 years with 8 incredible grandkids who all have fun, delicious food memories of their Grandma Barb. Whether it was helping to make snickerdoodles and spaghetti or just enjoying her famous pickles or homemade strawberry jam on a piece of toast, so many memories were made in her kitchen.

Barbara, once described by her husband of 55 years as a woman who attacked life, enjoyed traveling, spending time with her family and many wonderful friends, and sipping a good glass of wine or a delicious cocktail. She found delight in gardening; her roses were a reflection of her beauty, strength and devotion. And we would be remiss not to remember how much she loved hitting the ski slopes.

Barbara Jean was a beautiful, courageous and giving woman. A true fighter in every sense of the word. As we are all relieved that she has been freed from her suffering and is now Home with the Lord, it is that unconditional love and spirit of hers that we will all remember and certainly miss.

Barbara is survived by her 4 children, Chris (Lara) Corcoran, Mike (Melissa) Corcoran, Susan (Troy) Held, and Kari (Kameron) Kildea, and her 8 wonderful grandchildren. Barbara is also survived by her siblings, Allen Froiland, Carol Retzloff and Michael Froiland, and step-sibling, Lonnie Dobbs. In addition to her immediate family, Barbara is survived by many dear friends whom she considered to be like sisters.

To honor Barbara’s memory, we are holding a celebration of life ceremony on February 4th, 2023. Mass will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church at 1 pm, with the praying of the Rosary beginning at 12:30 pm. Following Mass, there will be an Interment of Ashes service held at Palm Mortuary on North Jones beginning at 2:30 pm with a reception following. We invite anyone who knew Barbara to attend and remember her beautiful life with us.

In lieu of flowers, Barbara’s family suggests considering a donation to cancer research or to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmnorthwest.com for the Corcoran family.