Barbara J. Robinson

Barbara J. Robinson, age 87, Mankato, passed away at home on December 16, 2024, following an illness of several months. 

A private Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Mankato at 11 a.m. on January 10, 2025. Mankato Mortuary is assisting the family with arrangements. 

Barbara was born April 6, 1937 in Freeborn County, the oldest of three children to Leonard and Ardella (Buschow) Dinneen. She grew up in Matawan, MN, and graduated from Freeborn High School in 1954. She attended the College of St. Catherine and moved to Mankato in 1957, where she would thereafter make her home. She married Dennis Schultz at St. Casimir Catholic Church in Wells, MN on April 26, 1958 and they raised a son born the following year. Barbara worked in Mankato in the 1960's through the 80's, attended Mankato State College and then became a business owner, co-founding Diversified Consultants, Inc. ("DCI”) in 1990. After divorcing Denny in 1976, she married Donald Robinson in 1987 and they lived on top of the hill until the time of her death. Barbara enjoyed antiquing and cooking for others, and in later years, holding court with Don and friends at their winter home in Fountain Hills, Arizona, where appetizers and polite conversation were provided in equal measure. 

She is survived by her husband, Donald Robinson; son, Todd Schultz of Phoenix; granddaughter, Kyley (Will) Sitton of Alexandria, VA; brother, Robert (Dawn) Dinneen of Lake Quivira, KS; step-children, Terry (Connie) Robinson and Sheri Robinson of Mankato, Debra Solano of Oakdale, Richard (Dee) Robinson of Milwaukee; several cousins, and wonderful nieces and nephews along with their spouses and many children. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Sharon (Robert) Staloch of Wells.

The family wishes to thank Danielle White and the Mayo Clinic hospice professionals who provided care and comfort, Doula Mary Beth Trembley, the folks at St. John the Baptist church who gave spiritual help and guidance, and Eva’s Care Cooperative for their kind and tender bedside manner.

 A special thanks to the neighbors, who have provided support of every kind in abundance for years and through this difficult time.