Barbara J. Engel,

Age 60 of Apple Valley, born Valentines Day 1963 in Minneapolis to Russell and Marilyn Swanson, passed away at home, June 15, 2023 after a long battle with kidney disease and congestive heart failure.

Barb spent several years as an auxiliary member to The Apple Valley Fire Department where she spent countless hours supporting the firefighters by providing aid at active fire scenes, assisting with fundraisers for the relief association and other activities to promote fire prevention.

Barb also spent several years as a volunteer in the Boy Scouts of America where she served as a den mother, Webelos leader and assistant scoutmaster. She spent several nights away from home on campouts and sometimes in the pouring rain supporting scouting activities. Her efforts impacted several youth in the area and had a strong influence in their lives.

In addition to being a part of the auxiliary to The Apple Valley Fire Department and the Boy Scouts, she also spent time working with the ISD 196 program River Valley Project Explore, as well as Pacer whose programs work with those with disabilities through enrichment activities and education.

In 1982 Barb married her husband, Dan and in 1984 her son, David was born. In 2019 Barb became a grandma when her granddaughter, Allison was born. She enjoyed spending time with her family whether it was taking a road trip, getting together for a picnic or engaging in a sporadic nerf battle that were known to occur in her family.

In her spare time Barb enjoyed sewing, embroidering as well as taking care of her gardens and anything to do with the care of animals in need. She was an avid supporter of programs whose missions were to help homeless animals.

Barb is preceded in death by her dad, Russell.

She will be dearly missed by her husband, Dan; son, David (Amber); granddaughter, Allison; mom, Marilyn; brothers: Rob (Stacey), Don (Lynn) and Bill (Lisa); niece, Kelsey and her cat, Louie; nephew, Robert; and Barb’s twin cats, Cooper & Tucker.

A memorial service will be held at 6:30 PM, Thursday, June 22, 2023 with a visitation before and after the service from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Henry W. Anderson Mortuary, 14850 Garrett Ave., Apple Valley.

Barb will be laid to rest at Acacia Park Cemetery in Mendota Heights in a private service for family on Friday.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to an animal shelter of your choice.