Obituary of Barbara Lillian McKenzie

Barbara Lillian (Swantrom) McKenzie, 97, of Duluth, passed away on Monday, February 9, 2015. She was born in Duluth, MN to Alfred and Lillian (Johnson) Swanstrom on November 1, 1917. Barb grew up in West Palm Beach, FL and graduated from Florida State University with a degree in education. She returned to Duluth with her parents in 1937. Barbara married Roderick G. McKenzie on January 27, 1944 in Norfolk, VA while he was serving in the Navy. She was a first grade teacher at Washburn Elementary School for many years until retiring in 1982. She and Rod spent the next 17 years in Port St. Lucie, FL. Their summers were always spent at their cabin in Wascott, WI. In 1999 they moved back to Duluth to be closer to family. She was a long time member of Glen Avon Presbyterian Church. Barbara was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband of 71 years Rod along with her children, Roderick G. McKenzie, Jr. and Jill Winkler. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Michelle (Jason Gillem) McKenzie, Kristine McKenzie, Melissa Winkler, Erica (Tony) Medure and Kevin (Layna Tomaino) Winkler and six great-grandchildren, Zachary and Mara Gillem, Jackson and Isabella Medure and Noah and Caleb Winkler. We would like to thank Westwood Assisted Living for the care given to Barbara over the last 4 years. Gathering of family and friends will be held from 10 am until the 11 am memorial service on Monday, February 16, 2015 in Cremation Society of Minnesota 4100 Grand Ave. Duluth, MN. Interment will be held in the spring. Services entrusted to Cremation Society of Minnesota 218-624-5200