Obituary of Barbara Clare Lenius Baker

Barbara Clare Lenius Baker passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023 at home with her children by her side. Barbara was born on November 28, 1950 to Neil and Angela McCluhan in Sioux City IA. Barb was the fun-loving and adventurous third daughter in a family of seven children.

As a child, Barb enjoyed playing outdoor games, skateboarding, and playing basketball. Barbara graduated from Bishop Heelan High school, and attended Briar Cliff College in Sioux City.

On December 13, 1969, Barb was united in marriage to Bob Lenius. Bob was serving in the US Marine Corp during the Vietnam War, and Barb enjoyed traveling with him, and living in different locations around the country. Barb and Bob were blessed with two loving children, Kelly Angela and Matthew Robert.

Barbara worked as a Sales Account Manager for Data Card in Bloomington, MN until her retirement. The most important role in Barb’s life was being a “Granny” to Lexi Radotich and Tate Lenius. She was a vocal cheerleader at Lexi’s softball games and Tate’s hockey games.

Barb was extremely talented. She was an amazing gardener, and enjoyed growing vegetables and lovely flowers. Barb was an excellent cook. She loved to entertain, and was the family member always volunteering to host family parties and holiday celebrations. She loved to decorate her home. A favorite holiday pastime was decorating her Barbie doll ornament Christmas tree.

Barb is survived by her daughter, Kelly (Kevin) Radotich and granddaughter Lexi Radotich and son, Matt (Paige) Lenius and grandson Tate Lenius. Her sisters Leah (Tim) Pigatti, Kelly Buchholz (Richard Boelz), Joan Zuhlsdorf (Glen Moravec) and sister-in-law Joni McCluhan. Barb is also survived by many nieces and nephews whom she treasured; Christina Pigatti, Neil McCluhan, Tony McCluhan, Joseph McCluhan, Alex Zuhlsdorf, Mark Buchholz, Michael LaBrasca, Larry LaBrasca, Ted Welsh, and Hayes Zuhlsdorf. She is also survived by her special friend Ronnie DeMarais. As well, Barb leaves behind her two precious dogs, Jack and Gracie, who sat by her side during her illness.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Richard McCluhan, John McCluhan, her sister Mary LaBrasca, and her nephews Erich and Mark Buchholz.

Funeral masss for Barbara will be held on August 3, 2023 at 11am with a visitation at 10am located at St. Stephens Church in Anoka, MN.

The family encourages you to wear some type/shade of pink to mass. It is her favorite color and it would make her smile! 

When you see something pretty, sparkling, and pink, think of Barb. She loved to wear sparkling shirts and shoes. May Barbara’s spirit and memory give joy to all who hold her in their hearts.