Barbara A. Gruber
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Barbara Ann (Abel) Gruber, age 87, known to friends and family as Barbie, departed this life on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Fla. A graveside interment will be held 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 17, at Lakeside Cemetary, 900 N. Fairlakes Ave., Fairmont, officiated by her nephew, The Reverend Richard Abel. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made in her name to St. John’s United Church of Christ, 301 N. Main Street, Fairmont, MN 56031.
Barbara was born March 15, 1937, in New Ulm, Minn. Barbara spent her formative years in Fairmont, Minn. and her summers in the northern Minnesota resort community of Tower, Minn. In her teens, she and her parents, Arthur and Jessie Abel, relocated to West Palm Beach, where she graduated from Palm Beach High School in 1956.
Barbara’s exuberant presence and boundless energy enriched the lives of all who knew her. A woman of passion and joy, she shared her love of life with everyone she encountered.
Barbara’s legacy lives on through her adoring family, including her children: son, George (David); daughter, Sheri Lynn; grandchildren, Lauren (Danny), Leslie (Michael), Monica, Mallory (Jake) and Erica; grandson, Alan (Benjamin); and great-granddaughter, Peyton. Other extended family members include, sister-in-law, Peggy Gruber; nieces, Julie and Alesia (Dan); and nephews, Robert (Judy), Donald (Linda), Richard (Patricia), David (MaryJo) and Karl.
Throughout her professional life, Barbara served her community with dedication. As head teller at Central Bank, as a cashier at the Palm Beach Auditorium, and later as a supervisor in the Finance Department of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Palm Beach County. She was respected for her work ethic and integrity.
Barbara was a faithful member of Union Congregational Church, where she engaged in fellowship and worship.
Her life was also marked by the joy she found in her hobbies. Queen Bee of Crimson Cuties Red Hat Society and an avid card player, Barbara found camaraderie and delight in these pursuits.
Barbara’s departure leaves a void in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Yet, her spirited personality and enduring kindness will continue to inspire and comfort us all.
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