Minnetonka, MN - Barbara Maxine (Eckman) Krig, 95, formerly of Duluth, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Born on June 7, 1931, to Hildur and Vern Eckman. Barb dedicated her life to education, service, and the people she loved. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Gustavus Adolphus College in 1952 and later received her special education license from Mankato State University in 1977.

Barb began her teaching career as an English teacher in Rochester before continuing in the Robbinsdale School District. She later found her calling in special education, serving students in the Bloomington, Rosemount-Apple Valley, and Hopkins school districts for more than two decades. She retired from education in 1997 after a career marked by compassion, dedication, and advocacy for children with special needs.

Barb was a lifelong advocate for education and community service. She generously volunteered her time with Gustavus Adolphus College, the Minnesota Special Education Advisory Council, the Minnesota Education Association, P.E.O. Sisterhood, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, Gethsemane Lutheran Church and several other civic and educational organizations.

Barb's happiest place was her beloved cabin on Sand Lake. She had a lifelong love of poetry and was known for her generous spirit and outgoing personality. Known as a true social butterfly whose warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Barb is survived by her children, David Krig (Maelene), Betsy Allen (Brian), and Cindy Uran-Woodruff; grandchildren Joseph Uran (Macall), Brittany Uran, Megan Dickinson (Kyle), Katie Murillo (Agustin), Linnea Krig and Alyssa Krig; great-grandchildren Kendall, Charley, Alden, and Wesley; and many beloved friends and family.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby Bruce Krig; her parents, Hildur and Vern Eckman; and her brother, David Eckman.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church 715 Minnetonka Mills Road, Hopkins, MN. Visitation 10AM-11AM., Service at 11AM. Lunch immediately following. Memorials are preferred to the family with a designation to be made at a later date.