Barbara Folk

Barbara Folk, age 75, of Watertown, SD, formerly of Milbank, SD, passed away on Friday, October 25, 2024, at Prairie Lakes Hospital in Watertown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank, SD. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Mundwiler Funeral Home in Milbank, SD, with a prayer service beginning at 7:00 p.m . Visitation will continue one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Wednesday. Fr. Brian Eckrich will celebrate the Mass, and interment will be at St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery in Milbank.

Barbara Jean (Brandt) Folk was born on September 4, 1949, in Ortonville, MN, to Orville and Delores (Granquist) Brandt. She grew up in the Nassau, MN, area and attended school in Revillo, SD. Barbara graduated with the Class of 1967 from Revillo High School before moving to Watertown, SD, to attend the business school. She resided with her grandparents while she was living there and enjoyed having the opportunity to spend time with them.

Barbara’s life intertwined with that of her beloved husband, Glenn. On July 15, 1972, they were united in marriage and together they built a beautiful life centered around family, hard work, and cherished moments. Barbara dedicated herself to caring for her family, working full-time, assisting on their farm, and tending to her flower garden.

Beyond her responsibilities at home, Barbara found delight in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed word find puzzles, loved attending bingo, and was fond of sitting outdoors. Barbara had immense pride in her children and grandchildren; she enjoyed sharing in their accomplishments and milestones.

Barbara was a woman of warmth and kindness; among the things dear to her heart were attending her grandchildren’s events and enjoying family gatherings, most recently “Cousin Weekend” in Willmar, MN, and Grandparents Day at St. Lawrence School. Barbara was filled with joy and happiness; when spending time with Glenn, doing things they enjoyed together: going out to eat and attending veteran activities.

Barbara’s ties to her community were deep-rooted, as demonstrated by her active involvement in various organizations, including the VFW, VVA, and DAV Auxiliaries. Her dedication to serving others and her unwavering commitment to her beliefs left an unforgettable memory on all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

With genuine kindness and infectious smile, Barbara’s heartfelt greetings endeared her to all who knew her. She had a way of making everyone feel valued and loved, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went.

Left to cherish Barbara’s memory are her husband of 52 years, Glenn of Watertown, SD; children: Michael (Mary) Folk of Beardsley, MN; Jamie (John) Boyle of Watertown, SD; Lori Folk of Marshall, MN; and Ronald (Laurie) Folk of Milbank, SD; nine grandchildren: Cody Hayes, Katelyn Folk, Austin Folk, Tyler Assel, Levi Boyle, Carleigh Boyle, Owen Neeley, Oliver Folk, and Oscar Folk; one great-grandchild, Kyson Hayes; brother: Mike (Linda) Brandt of Revillo, SD; sisters and brother-in-law: Linda (Dave) Pauli, and Duane (Gail) Folk of Milbank, SD; and Renae Espland of Sioux Falls, SD; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Preceding her in death were her parents, Orville and Delores Brandt; parents-in-law, Ed and Gladys Folk; brothers-in-law: Steve and Warren Folk; her three sisters she will meet in heaven; and many other loved ones.