Barbara Jean Gross

BARBARA JEAN (BARB) GROSS February 19, 1952 – January 14, 2018    Barbara Jean (Barb) Gross, 65 of Nevis, MN passed away peacefully on January 14th, 2018 with her loving husband by her side after a very valiant fight with cancer.      Barb was born on February 19th, 1952 to Chester (Chet) and Margaret Kimball in Park Rapids, MN. She attended Park Rapids schools, graduating with the class of 1970. She then went on to attend Cosmetology school in St. Cloud, MN. Barb was united in marriage to Al Gross of Nevis, MN on December 19th, 1971 in a double wedding ceremony alongside her twin sister Kathy. Immediately following the wedding Barb and Al traveled with the Navy, eventually making their permanent home in the Nevis/Park Rapids area in January of 1975.    In November of 1974, Barb and Al were blessed with their son Brian. In August of 1980, along came their daughter Melanie. After being a stay at home mom and helping with her nieces, Barb started a 15 year career at Northern Pines United Methodist Church camp that would allow her to serve the Lord and many people through her caring nature. Over the years she was also involved with many organizations such as Job’s Daughters, Akeley VFW Auxiliary (Tigerettes), Park Rapids Eagles Auxiliary, and Cub Scouts as Den Mother. For many years Barb, with the help of her family, volunteered at the Riverside Methodist Church Annual Thankmeal which she really enjoyed. Every Memorial Day you would find Barb assisting with the Laying of the Wreaths at the local cemetery services to honor the fallen soldiers.    Barb was a dedicated wife, mother, and sister. As a mother, Barb was always encouraging her children in the activities they enjoyed. You could easily find her on the sidelines cheering Brian on in football or Melanie in volleyball. Along the way she took in many honorary children and loved them as her own. She loved her grandchildren dearly always making time to bake, do crafts and go on fun adventures with them.    Barb will be lovingly remembered by her husband Al of Nevis; son Brian (Heiki) of Nevis, daughter Melanie (Brian) Weaver of Ponsford; twin sister Kathy (Steve) Belew of Donna, TX, sister Mary Kimball of Park Rapids, and brother Dick (Raylene) Kimball of Park Rapids; grandchildren: Cameron, Chyanne, Cora, Cade and Carsten as well as many nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.    Honorary Urn bears will be her grandchildren.    A Celebration of Life will be held during late spring, Barb’s favorite season, with the lilacs in bloom.