On, Saturday, Aug 3, 2013, Barbara Sue Ammerman, 61, finished her baptismal journey, a journey cut short, but not diminished, by cancer. While living with cancer, every minute was special. Every achievement, no matter how small, was a celebration. Every day was a good day. In choosing her battles, Barb taught us that cancer only has power if you let it stop you from doing the things you love. Her courage, determination, spirit and smile inspired so many. Even her passing was an inspiration as the sun broke through the clouds at the very moment she died.
Barb was born on November 22, 1951 in Duluth, the first child of four born to Jean and Ed Manthey. She grew up in Duluth and knew early in life that her calling was to care for others. Barb graduated from the College of St. Scholastica in 1973 with a degree in nursing. She served our country as a Navy nurse for six years and continued ministering to those in need as a nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital for over 25 years. She retired from St. Luke’s Hospital last year so that she could spend more time with her children and grandson, Nicholas.
Throughout her life, Barb was a tower of strength for her friends and family. Her siblings relied on her as a family leader. Her children developed their own strength under her example and guidance. Her patients sensed her confidence and felt comforted. Her church and her P.E.O. Chapter benefitted from her giving nature through her many volunteer activities. Barb touched many people during her life and left a legacy of kindness and caring.
Barb Ammerman is preceded in death by her father, Edward Manthey. She is survived by her mother, Jean Manthey; children Christie (Ryan) Larson, Tim (Elisabeth) Ammerman, and Sherry (Adam) Kruczek; grandson Nicholas Edward and two grandchildren on the way. She is also survived by her brothers, Bruce (Mary Ruth) Manthey, and Rukshan (Kusala) Wijesekera; sisters Beth (Andy) Davidson and Jennifer (Michael) Simonson and many nieces and a nephew.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses of the St. Luke’s oncology, the nurses on two-west, and to Sandy Ikola and Mary Orman, who blessed Barb with their friendship for many years and blessed us incredibly during her last week.
Visitation: 1 pm until the 2 pm Memorial Service Wednesday, August 7, 2013 at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1710 E Superior St, in Duluth.
Memorials can be directed to St Paul’s Episcopal Church Bell Choir or to P.E.O. Chapter C.R. c/o Jean Manthey, 2100 Miller Creek Dr. Duluth MN 55811.
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