Barb Sauter

Barbara Joanne Sauter, age 82, of Lindstrom, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family March 20, 2012. Barb was born to Barney and Edna Lent of Center City, Minnesota, on April 16, 1929, the youngest of two children. She was a lifelong resident of the Chisago Lakes Area and graduated from Lindstrom Center City High School, (Chi-Hi), and the Minnesota School of Business. Barb is survived by her loving husband, Jack who began courting her in junior high by winking at her as he drove by her house in his Model A Ford. They were married in 1949, and were true soul mates. They celebrated 62 very happy years of marriage last June. Barb is also survived by children; Becky Dudley (Ian), of Lindstrom, Molly Hargarten (Jim), of Layfayette, Colorado, and Charlie Sauter (Denise) of Boulder Junction, Wisconsin; grandchildren, Megan Dudley, (Scott Nilson) and Ben Dudley, Emma and Aaron Sauter and great grandson Henrik Nilson. She is also survived by sister Connie Allin, of Fort Collins, Colorado, and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Her most memorable job was as secretary to the president of Lakewood Community College from its inception to the mid 70’s. She came home with many stories of the fun she shared with her coworkers and students, and remained in touch with many for years. Barb was also an important part of Jack’s chiropractic practice in keeping books, making appointments and laughing and visiting with patients. Barb had a love of life, an easy smile and knack for finding fun in every situation. Her family, who dubbed her the “Dalai Mama,” will always treasure her wisdom, calm and common sense. Some of her family’s fondest memories include her purple hair, long before it was fashionable, (she didn’t like reading directions), giving her roller skates for her 50th birthday, clogging, dancing the Lindy with Jack, water color painting and selling her prints and switch plates at craft fairs, and even a Segway tour of Minneapolis for her 80th birthday. Barb was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, and bravely underwent treatment without a complaint, “it’ll be better tomorrow.” She will be remembered by all in her life the past year by her sparkly colorful hats, pink lipstick and her beautiful smile. The memorial service was Saturday, March 24 at Trinity Lutheran Church. Memorials to Trinity Lutheran Church.