For more than a generation, Barbara “Barb” Barduson was the heart of Minnesota FHA/FCCLA. A Home Economics teacher, early FHA adviser, and longtime state leader, she devoted her career to helping young people gain skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose through Family and Consumer Sciences and FCCLA.
Many of our long-time advisers, alumni, and past officers remember Barb’s steady presence, her belief in young people, and her unwavering commitment to our mission. She began her career as a Home Economics teacher and FHA adviser in the early years of the organization.
In 1949, under her leadership as a chapter adviser, Minnesota proudly celebrated its first-ever National Officer.
In 1969, Barb became the State Adviser of Minnesota FHA, a role she held with distinction until 1985. During her tenure, she:
- Helped design and grow Minnesota’s Action Activity Events, which later inspired the national STAR Events program
- Supported the expansion of chapters and membership across Minnesota
- Became a legendary figure at Camp, State Meeting, and National Meetings—remembered for her organization and high expectations, but also for her humor, stories, and occasional good-natured hijinks
Barb truly loved FHA/FCCLA, Family and Consumer Sciences, and the students and advisers she served with all her heart. Even after retirement, she remained deeply connected to the organization—attending state meetings as recently as a few years ago and joining us for major anniversaries, including Minnesota’s 70th celebration in 2016. Her influence is still woven into the programs, traditions, and sense of community our members experience today.
Celebration of Life
Barb’s Celebration of Life will be held:
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Date: Friday, November 28, 2025
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Time: 11:00 a.m.
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Location: Starkson Funeral Life Celebration Chapel, Hastings, Minnesota
Family and friends are cordially invited to a visitation from 10:00–11:00 a.m. and to a reception immediately following the service, all at the funeral home on Friday, November 28, 2025. Read Barb’s full obituary here.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
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The Barb Barduson Scholarship Fund
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Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church, Hastings
The Barb Barduson Scholarship Fund
In partnership with Barb’s family, Minnesota FCCLA has established the Barb Barduson Scholarship Fund to continue the work she cared about most: opening doors for young people.
Gifts to this fund will support scholarships and leadership opportunities for Minnesota FCCLA members—helping students participate in conferences, STAR Events, and other experiences that build the skills, relationships, and confidence Barb championed throughout her life.
If you would like to honor Barb’s memory and extend her legacy of opportunity and leadership, please consider making a gift using the secure form below.
Donate to the Barb Barduson Scholarship FundIf you prefer to give by check, please use the information below:
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Make checks payable to: Minnesota FCCLA
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Memo line: Barb Barduson Scholarship Fund
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Mail to:
Minnesota FCCLA
P.O. Box 131386
Roseville, MN 55113
Checks may also be brought to Barb’s Celebration of Life service and marked for the Barb Barduson Scholarship Fund; they will be forwarded to Minnesota FCCLA and directed accordingly.
