Barbara Christine (Thunberg) Sorkilmo

Barbara Christine Sorkilmo passed away Friday, October 24, at the age of 86.  She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Clayton "Sam"; sons-in-law, Craig Barton and Gene Hively; parents, brother, and 3 sisters.  

Barb grew up on the family farm in Grasston, MN.  She attended high school in Braham, MN.  She met the love of her life, Sam, they married and raised their 6 children in St. Louis Park and later in New Hope.  She loved flowers and had beautiful gardens in Minnesota and Florida.  Barb loved music and was very active in her church choir.

Barb and Sam retired and spent many wonderful years in Naples, Florida.  They returned to Minnesota and resided in New Hope.  After Sam passed away, Barb lived in the Elk River area, and then later in Cambridge, MN.

She is survived by children Denise Hively, Deanna (Tim) Hanschen, Denita (Paul) Bogart, Susan Alberti, Scott Sorkilmo, and Shawn Sorkilmo; 14 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and many cousins, nieces & nephews, and friends.

Her kindness and love will be missed.  Special thank you to her care team at GracePointe Crossing for the care and love they gave Barbara.

A memorial service will be held at 2PM on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 with visitation 1 hour prior to service at Central Lutheran Church, 1103 School Street NW, Elk River, MN. A private interment will be held at a later date. 

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