Barbara Jo Keippela

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Barbara Jo Keippela, who went home to be with the Lord at the of age 75, on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

Barbara was born on July 5, 1949, in Cloquet, Minnesota, the daughter of Howard and Marian (Barney) Sunnarborg. She grew up in Esko, Minnesota, and graduated from Esko High School. Following her passion for caring for others, she pursued nursing and earned her LPN degree.

At a youth rally, Barbara met the love of her life, David Keippela. The two were married at the Esko Apostolic Lutheran Church and later moved to Bemidji, Minnesota, where they began their life together. They were blessed with two wonderful sons, Jason and Jeremy.

Barbara’s nursing career included her time at the Ishpeming Nursing Home, where her compassionate nature shone through. As David’s career led him to become a pastor, Barbara embraced her role as a pastor’s wife with grace and joy. Together, they served several church communities, ultimately settling in Stacy, Minnesota, where David was the senior pastor at Sunnyside Free Lutheran Church for over 25 years.

Barbara was the heart of her home and the soul of her community. She was warm, nurturing, and endlessly welcoming—qualities that made her a beloved presence in every place she lived. A gifted hostess, Barbara was always prepared with her signature red lipstick, making delectable baked goods and her infectious laugh. She had a creative spirit, pouring her energy into quilting, painting, needlepoint, and crafting—eventually opening her own home-based shop, Barb’s Bee Hive. She especially loved baking, singing in the church choir, and sharing her faith.

The 23rd Psalm was one of her favorites, a reflection of the deep trust she had in God. Her faith was the foundation of her life—a quiet but powerful testimony to all who knew her. Barbara never missed an opportunity to share the love of Jesus, whether through a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or a prayer whispered for someone in need.

Her humor, humility, and lively personality endeared her to many. She had a bright outlook on life and a deep love for her family. In her later years, she lovingly cared for David during his final days and remained deeply involved in the lives of her sons and grandchildren.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Howard and Marian; her beloved husband, David; and her brother-in-law, Robert Prouty. She is survived by her sons, Jason (Joy) Keippela and Jeremy (Stephen Sporer) Keippela; her cherished grandchildren, Noah and Hope Keippela; her siblings, Bonnie Rae Prouty and Timothy (Lisa) Sunnarborg; as well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Barbara’s life will be honored at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2025, at Sunnyside Free Lutheran Church, 22745 Typo Creek Drive NE, Stacy, Minnesota. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment will follow at Linwood Township Cemetery.

Barbara’s legacy of kindness, creativity, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her.