Barbara Jean Krech

Barbara "Barb" Krech peacefully passed away in the afternoon of July 7, 2026 at the age of 79; she was surrounded by her loving family. Born July 19, 1946 to Ray and Dorothy Rowen, Barb grew up in St. Paul, and spent her childhood with her two younger brothers and a multitude of cousins. In 1989 Barb moved to Forest Lake with her significant other and her daughter. Barb worked for the state of Minnesota for 35 years, forming friendships that have continued to last. After she retired in 2011, Barb had a plethora of free time on her hands! She spent her time with her three grandsons, watched Survivor and Hallmark Christmas Movies, became a Starbucks regular, and enjoyed shopping at Target, Cub Foods, and Kohl's.

Barb was full of compassion and delight, making everyone who met her feel special and welcomed. Loved and admired by numerous people, Barb will be extremely missed.

She is survived by her daughter Jennifer (Nels) and her three grandsons (Christian, Noah, Andrew); many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

She is proceeded in death by her significant other, John Kaufmann; her daughter, Lori Krech; her brothers, William "Bill" and Gary Rowen; and her parents, Dorothy and Ray Rowen

Visitation at 10:30AM, service at 12:30PM on Wednesday, July 15th at Willwerscheid Funeral Home, 1167 Grand Ave, Saint Paul, MN, 55105