Michelle R. Barsness

Michelle Renee Barsness, age 56, passed away peacefully in her home in Highlands Ranch, CO on May 11, 2024 surrounded by her significant other, William Moore and family after fighting her 5-year cancer battle with grace, determination and courage. A memorial service will take place at Glenwood Lutheran Church in Glenwood, MN on Saturday, June 1st with visitation starting at 1:00 p.m. and the service to commence at 2:00 p.m. followed immediately by refreshments in the church basement. Arrangements are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood.

Michelle was born on June 2, 1967 in Glenwood, MN. She attended Glenwood schools and upon graduation from high school attended Concordia College in Moorhead, MN. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1989. She moved to Colorado and spent the greater part of her career as a claims manager in the insurance industry eventually retiring in Denver, CO during the summer of 2023.

Michelle loved riding her bike in the mountains and spending time with family and friends on Lake Minnewaska in MN. She was a talented designer: her home, her flower pots and her wardrobe were evidence of her talents. She enjoyed travelling: Mexico, Hawaii, Europe; and of course—back to Minnesota. She enjoyed live music and especially jazz. Special moments were spent attending Michael Franti concerts in the past few years. Her home was also a sanctuary for her and she was an avid gardener.

She loved her nephew Jacob and her nieces Elizabeth and Emma and was an avid supporter and

spectator of their many sports and events.

Michelle is survived by her mother, Patty J. (Blair) Barsness, her brother, Chad J. Barsness and her sister-in-law Jennifer J. (Alby) Barsness. Michelle is also survived by her nephew, Jacob B. Barsness, nieces, Elizabeth J. Barsness and Emma K. Barsness, her significant other of 26 years, William Moore and many dear friends and family as well as her beloved dog, Barkley.

 She was preceded in death by her father, Everell J. Barsness.

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