Barbara "Barb" Jane (Kampfer) Benson

Barbara Jane (Kampfer) Benson, age 61, was surrounded by family and friends when she peacefully passed away on October 30th, 2024, at Farmside Assisted Living in Backus, MN after courageously battling cancer. She was born on December 6, 1962, in Saint Paul, MN, the daughter of Ruth (Clyde) and David Kampfer.

Barb brightened every room she entered. She had a heart of gold, gave generously of herself and loved with her whole heart. She formed unique and tight bonds with her grandchildren, friends, and family. Through her strong sense of community, she formed special relationships with so many who have touched her life over the past 20 years working at the Laporte Public School and at the Laporte Grocery.

She was resilient and occasionally stubborn, but also funny and quick-witted. She bravely charged through life with positivity and was always up for an adventure; she was never afraid to try new things. In her free time, she enjoyed watching movies, doing puzzles, crafting and Barg-o at the Popple Bar. Barb enjoyed cooking and made the BEST cheesecake. She will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to know or love her.

Barb is preceded in death by her mom, Ruth (Herb) Albrecht; dad, David Kampfer; sister, Kileen Zubke; nieces, Nola Kampfer and Rebecca Kielsa; close cousin, Chelle Lind; and sister-in-law, Kay Novodorsky.

Barb is survived by her loving husband, Gary; son, Jeston (Jessica) Nelson; daughter, Leigh Anne (AJ) Ford; brothers, Glenn (Karri) Kampfer, Marty (Lisa) Kampfer, Bill (Heather) Kampfer; sisters, Julie Kampfer, Roxy (Ron) Kampfer, Lori (Brad) Kielsa; 5 grandchildren, Lindsay, Blake, Bryce, Hanna, Carly; brothers-in-law, Nick Zubke and Rick (Jannell) Benson; sisters-in-law, Margie (Paul) Maher and Pam (Jerry) Ferguson.

A Celebration of Barb’s Life will be held with a visitation from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and service at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, all to be held at the Laporte School. Pastor Matt Sconce will officiate. Urn bearers are Glenn Kampfer, Marty Kampfer, Bill Kampfer, Brad Kielsa, and Nick Zubke. Interment will be held at a later date in the Lakeport Cemetery in Laporte, MN.

Barb’s care has been entrusted to Northern Peace Funeral Home of Walker, MN. Online condolences for the family may be left at www.northernpeace.com

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