Barbara Elizabeth Bren

Barbara Elizabeth Bren, age 76 of Cottage Grove, passed away November 16, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 am, Thursday, December 11, 2025, at the Church of St. Rita, 8694 80th Street S., Cottage Grove with visitation one hour prior. Interment will be held at Ft. Snelling National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Ronald McDonald House.

Barbara Elizabeth Bren was born April 17, 1949, to Jerome and Elizabeth "Betty" Kollasch. She graduated from St. Bernard's in 1967 and went on to attend St. Paul Vo-Tech. While working at an insurance company in St. Paul she met David Bren, and they were later married on April 15, 1972. They made their home on the east side of St. Paul for the next 20 years, during which Barb worked for the State of Minnesota in the Department of Revenue.

Barb had a passion for quilting and was an active member of a local quilting club. She also enjoyed ceramics, beading, and sewing. Over the years, she and David participated in golf and bowling leagues together.

Since 1993, Barb and David have lived in Cottage Grove. Barb will be remembered for the many beautiful quilts and outfits she lovingly created for family and friends. She also made sure that the grandkids were blessed with donut holes and chocolate milk. Barb's warmth, creativity, and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Barb is survived by her husband of 53 years David; daughters Rebecca (Chris) Foster and Gena Helmuth; grandchildren, Samantha Foster, Travis (Rachel) Sjurseth, Hannah Foster, Michael David Helmuth and Noah Foster; siblings Carol (Bill) Reilly, Chuck (Jane) Kollasch, Rob (Linda) Kollasch and Ginj (Doug) Schneider as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents.

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