Barbara Graalum

Barbara Jean Graalum, Grandin, ND, passed away unexpectedly on October 24, 2025. She was born on February 9, 1949, to Hallie and Rollina (Sather) Garrett.  Barb grew up and attended school in Grandin.

On November 14, 1966, Barb was united in marriage to Donald Graalum.  They were blessed with 2 sons, Jamison and Darin.  They moved to Fargo where Barb worked for Kings Food Host.  In 1974, after her father passed away, they moved back to Grandin to care for her mother.  Her mother passed away in 1976.

She worked in Grandin at Agway Research and The County Line until her retirement.

Barb had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel at home. Her kitchen was a place of comfort and abundance, where she lovingly prepared big, hearty meals for anyone who walked through her door—you never left hungry. Her traditional baked goods and home cooking were legendary, often praised as the best around.

She was also an avid gardener, finding deep joy in planting flowers and tending to her yard throughout the summer. Barb enjoyed canning beets, pickles and salsa. However, after one specific year of canning 72 pints of beets in one day, she commented “never again!”

Barb was a devoted supporter of her sons’ athletic pursuits, rarely missing a football, basketball, or baseball game during their high school years. Her favorite events, however, were always the Legion baseball games and tournaments, which she cherished deeply.

Family was the heart of Barb’s world. She was endlessly proud of her granddaughter, Brooke, and never missed a chance to celebrate her accomplishments. Whether cheering her on at figure skating competitions or applauding her performances, Barb was always Brooke’s biggest fan. Her unwavering encouragement and unconditional love will be remembered forever.

Some of Barb’s most treasured moments were the simple, everyday ones spent at home with her sons, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter — baking together, relaxing in the garage, or watching Bison football.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, Hallie and Rollina; her mother and father-in-law, Burton and Helen Graalum; sister-in-law, Anita Trana; brother-in-law, Bob Graalum; sister-in-law, Linda Graalum; granddaughter, Morgan Graalum; her husband, Donald; and her sister, Patsy Hestbeck.

Barb is survived by her sons, Jamison (Dawn) and Darin both Grandin; granddaughter, Brooke Graalum, Jamestown; sister, Betty Parkhouse, Fargo; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

*As per Barb’s wishes, a private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity.*

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