Barbara Paetznick

Barbara Jane Paetznick was born on August 18, 1945, in St. Paul, Minnesota, and passed away on November 5, 2026, at the age of 81.

Barbara's story took a special turn when she met the love of her life, Lloyd Hackl, while taking English classes at Lakewood Community College. What began in a classroom grew into a lifetime of love, family, learning, and adventure. Lloyd passed away in 2009, but the life and memories they built together remained an important part of her story.

A lifelong believer in education, Barbara's determination and passion for learning were evident early on. While working during the day, she attended night school to earn her Associate of Arts degree. She went on to attend Hamline University on a full scholarship, earning a degree in English Education. She graduated summa cum laude and received Phi Beta Kappa honors. Her dream of becoming an English teacher became reality when she began teaching English and coaching Knowledge Bowl at North Branch High School.

Barbara's love of words extended far beyond the classroom. She became an accomplished author, writing and publishing several books, including The Last Illusion and A Time of Need, as well as numerous poems. Her talent earned her recognition in many writing competitions, including first prize in the National Humanities Advancement competition for poetry, first prize from Writer's Digest, and the Amelia Award for Poetry. Writing was not simply a talent but a lifelong passion.

Barbara and Lloyd raised two daughters in a historic home in Center City, Minnesota, along with their beloved cats. They shared a love of travel and adventure, exploring places such as France, Greece, and England. Their appreciation for literature and Minnesota history also led them to perform Chautauqua presentations throughout Minnesota, bringing the works of beloved Minnesota authors to life through readings and performances of excerpts from authors including O.E. Rolvaag, Sinclair Lewis, Jon Hassler, and Judith Guest.

Beyond writing and teaching, Barbara enjoyed tennis, reading, collecting first-edition books and marbles, and discovering the beauty in life's little treasures. She also had a deep passion for music and seemed to know the lyrics to nearly every song. Music was another way she celebrated life and found joy in the everyday.

Upon retirement, Barbara and Lloyd embraced their snowbird lifestyle, spending winters at their second home in Peoria, Arizona. Their days there were filled with estate sales, collecting beautiful rocks, cooking together, and, of course, writing. Barbara also developed her artistic talents, creating beautiful gemstone art that she sold locally.

Much like one of her literary inspirations, Henry David Thoreau, Barbara believed in the value of simplicity, meaningful experiences, lifelong learning, and, above all, kindness. One of her favorite sayings was, "Don't let possessions possess you." She believed that life's greatest treasures weren't things, but the experiences we collect, the people we love, the knowledge we gain, and the kindness we share.

Barbara leaves behind a legacy of words, creativity, curiosity, and a reminder to live simply, embrace adventure, appreciate beauty, and always be kind.

Preceded in death by parents Reuben and Dora Paetznick, brother Norman and sister Dolores. Survived by daughters, Debbie (Todd) and Cynthia (Tim); granddaughters Sarah, Kailee, and Jenae; great grandchild, Blaine and sister Marcia. She will be remembered with love by her family, friends, former students, and all whose lives she touched.