Barbara Ann (Donahue) Larsen

     Barbara Ann (Donahue) Larsen, who lived a long and remarkable life, passed away peacefully on June 13th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 6th, 1927, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin.

     Barbara attended Lawrence University in Appleton, Wisconsin, where she met her beloved husband, George Norwood Larsen. They settled in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, and raised two sons, Jeff of Eden Prairie, MN, and Steve of St. Paul, MN. During a challenging period when George was struck by polio in 1956, Barbara stepped into his role as a vocal music teacher at North High School in Sheboygan until he recovered. Her career in education spanned many roles, including teacher, media specialist, and school librarian at Grant School.

     Barbara and George cherished their retirement in Sister Bay, where they built their beloved home, Hjertets Onske (Heart’s Desire). They were active community members, notably spearheading the committee for the Door Community Auditorium. Barbara's passion for music found expression in her involvement with the Peninsula Chamber Singers.

     A prolific writer, Barbara was the 2nd Poet Laureate of Door County. Her poetry, inspired by her Wisconsin roots, her experiences as an only child, and her deep connection to nature, garnered regional attention and praise. She shared her love for literature through teaching, readings, and published collections. In 1995, she won the Wisconsin Regional Writers Association Jade Ring prize for her poem “New Way of Seeing.” She was also recognized as one of the “Notable Women of Door County” and received the 2003 Peninsula Arts Association “Champion of the Arts Award.”

     In her final months, Barbara was surrounded by her family in St. Paul, MN, including her sons Jeff and Steve, daughter-in-law Ellen, grandchildren Blakey and Peter, Peter’s partner Brie, and great-granddaughter Calliope. Her family treasures the time she spent near them during her last year.

     Barbara Ann Donahue Larsen will be dearly missed, remembered for her unwavering love, boundless creativity, and profound impact on those who knew her.

     A celebration of Barbara's life will take place on September 28th, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the Casperson Funeral Home. Visitation will be held prior beginning at 2:00 pm.

     “I believe in the power and truth of poetry and the ability to connect with the hearts and minds of readers.” — Barbara Ann Donahue Larsen

     Expressions of sympathy, memories, and photos of Barbara may be shared with her family through her tribute page at www.caspersonfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Ann (Donahue) Larsen, please visit our floral store.