In Loving Memory of Barbara Ann Murray

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Barbara Ann Murray, 67, of Anoka, affectionately known as Barb, who left this life on April 9, 2026. Born March 26, 1959, Barb lived a life full of stories, warmth, and laughter. She was an avid reader, always eager to share tales—whether from a cherished book or from her own adventures. When Barb would say, "to make a long story short," everyone knew it was time to pour another cup of coffee, pop open the tab on a cold beer or soda and settle in for an evening of good company and conversation.

Barb was a devoted hockey mom, finding joy in watching her two boys play the sport she loved. Barb was even more enthusiastic when her beloved husband Tom was coaching from behind the bench. Though she cherished these hockey moments, Barb was never shy about drawing the line, famously telling her sons after a long day at the rink that she was “hockeyed out,” and would skip taking in the Anoka High School game that night to recharge for the next family match.

Barb was recently diagnosed with ALS, facing her illness with remarkable resilience and grace. The family wishes to extend their deepest appreciation to the compassionate staff at Hennepin Healthcare for their dedicated care and support throughout her journey.

Barb was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas “Tom” A. Murray; great grandparents, Otto and Linda Lindholm; grandparents, Otto and Theresa Lindholm; grandparents, William and Rosalie Oestreich; parents, William and Marcelle Oestreich; brother, Patrick Oestreich; niece, Joey Lynn Oestreich, niece, Teresa (Nik) Rajala; and niece, Wendy Kaarto.

She is survived by her two children, Ryan (Doreen Harvey) Murray of Floodwood and Eric (Elise Madsen) Murray of Coon Rapids; grandchildren Ebin Murray, John Murray, Artemis Murray, Cillian Murray, and Dorothy Murray; brother Larry Oestreich of Duluth, sister Linda (Todd) Anderson of Virginia Beach, brother Karl (Theresa) Oestreich of Eagan, brother David Oestreich (Lori Jensen) of Rochester; and brother Mark (Vicki) Oestreich of Duluth.

Barb retired in 2019 from Graco as a production planner.

Barb will be deeply missed by friends, neighbors, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, humor, storytelling, and devotion to her family—both in the stands and at home—will live on in the hearts of those she inspired.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the ALS Association and Hennepin Healthcare. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Barb’s remarkable life and memory. Though she is no longer with us, her stories and spirit will remain forever in our hearts. A celebration of Barb's life will take place on Friday, May 1st at Thurston-Lindberg Funeral Home, 2005 Branch Avenue, Anoka. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM with her Celebration of Life to begin at 2:00 PM. A Private interment will be held at a later date at Sunrise Cemetery, Duluth, MN.