Edward L. Barber, age 81, of North Hudson, WI, died unexpectedly on January 10, 2021 at his home in North Hudson.

Ed was born on August 28, 1939 in Minong, WI to Amos and Mary Ann (Holmes) Barber. He attended grade school in Minong, and later his family moved to Hudson, WI, where he graduated from Hudson High School in 1957. A few short years later, on May 16, 1959, he was united in marriage to his high school sweetheart, Rosemary “Rosie” Bieneman, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Hudson.

Ed began his career at Viking Electric located in the Twin Cities. Later, he founded Barber Electric, where he proudly served the Twin Cities for many years from 1977 to 2003. In his free time, Ed was a gifted woodworker of bird houses and other creations, which he enjoyed giving to family and friends. He could also be found Sunday after Mass, watching his beloved Minnesota Vikings. He was also an avid classic car fan, who could be frequently found in his garage fixing and tuning up his various classic cars. Ed was a dedicated member of St. Pats, serving as a faithful acolyte, Knights of Columbus member, and participant in many of the church events, especially the fish frys. Above everything, he treasured time spent with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his children: Brenda (William) Mann of Delano, MN, Thomas Barber of Las Vegas, NV, Daniel Barber of Hudson, WI, and Debora Barber of Hudson, WI; nine grandchildren: Julie (David) Archuletta, David Mann, Louisa Mann, Joseph Mann, Veronica Barber, Madeline Barber, John Barber, Joshua Barber, and Katie Barber; great-grandchild, Gavin Archuletta; siblings, Karen “Kay” Martin of Minong, WI and James Barber of Billings, MT; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Rosie; parents; and sister, Eleanor Barber.

Visitation will only be held from 4:00-6:00pm on Monday, January 18, 2021 at the O’Connell Family Funeral Home, 520 S. 11th St. in Hudson. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:00am on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1500 Vine St. in Hudson. This will be live streamed on St. Patrick’s Facebook page. Interment will be at St. Patrick Catholic Cemetery in Hudson.