Barbara Leinen

Barbara "Joan" Leinen, 80, of Breckenridge, MN, a beloved soul who graced this world with her warmth and kindness, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Fargo, ND. In celebration of Joan's remarkable life, friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation at Vertin-Munson Funeral Home in Wahpeton on Tuesday, April 2, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. A funeral service will follow from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the same location.

Born on September 7, 1943, in Chelsea, MA, Joan's life was a tapestry of love, faith, and unwavering compassion that touched the hearts of all who knew her. Joan will forever be remembered as a devoted wife of 60 blessed years to Wayne Leinen, a loving mother to Darin (Colette) Leinen, Tracy (Kevin Jacobson) McKinnon, and Corey (Shayla) Leinen, and amazing Grandmother to Krista, Allison (Chris), Justin (Marissa), Tanner, Bryce, Brady and Abby. Joan was the greatest Grandma to Theo, Kansas, Colby and Camden and sister to Pat, Mary, Peggy, Deb, and Paul. Her family was the cornerstone of her existence, and she found immense joy in their company. Joan was always there to offer comfort and support with open arms.

A woman of many talents and passions, Joan's memory will live on through the cherished moments spent at the cabin on Marion Lake over 30 beautiful years. She found solace in her knitting and crocheting projects, sharing her creativity with those around her. Joan's homemade wild grape jelly and juice were a testament to her culinary skills and nurturing nature. Despite never indulging in coffee herself, she savored her "coffee" moments with friends as a source of connection and camaraderie.

Those who had the privilege of crossing paths with Joan were greeted with a warm hug that symbolized her unconditional love for humanity. Her gentle spirit saw the best in everyone and she held strong to her faith throughout all seasons of life.

In addition to her immediate family members mentioned earlier who survive Joan, she is now reunited with her parents and Wayne's parents in eternal peace.

The legacy Joan leaves behind is not only marked by her proudest accomplishments of building a loving family but also by the countless lives she touched through simple acts of kindness and genuine friendship.

Joan's presence may no longer grace our physical world, but her spirit will continue to illuminate our lives with love and cherished memories. May she rest in peace knowing that she was truly loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.