Barbara Ann Sauvageau

Barbara Sauvageau passed away on Tuesday, April 29, 2026, at Eventide in Fargo, ND.

Barbara Ann Stanley was born on October 22, 1936, in Hillsboro, ND, to Lloyd and Bertha (Bohm) Stanley. As a child, she moved with her family to Mayville and Hunter, ND; Lake Park and New York Mills, MN, before the family settled in Fargo in 1951. She attended Fargo Central High School, graduating in 1954.

Barbara met the love of her life, Marcellin Sauvageau, and they were married at St. Mary’s Cathedral on November 10, 1954, in Fargo. Together, they raised seven children and welcomed two foster children: Gene, James, Lee, Lois, Larry, Kay, Judy & Bonnie and Larry. The family made their home on a farm near Horace, ND, where they built a life and raised their children.

Barbara was a dedicated homemaker and later worked for MeritCare in maintenance and guest services for many years.

Barbara cherished many things in life, but nothing was more important to her than her family and her faith. She was a devoted member of St. Benedict Church in Wild Rice, ND. In her younger years, Barbara found joy in quilting, creating many beautiful pieces that reflected her care and creativity. She also enjoyed playing cards with neighbors, spending time with friends, and traveling to new places.

Barbara is survived by her children Gene (Brenda) Sauvageau, James Sauvageau, Lois (Gary) Sommers, Judy (Roel) Sauvageau-Ronken, and Larry (Dean Peichel) Sauvageau; son-in-law Glenn Rheault; six grandchildren; two foster grandchildren; two foster great-grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; as well as siblings Doug (Phyllis) Stanley, George (Dee) Stanley, and Curt Stanley.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Marcellin; children Kay Rheault and Lee Sauvageau; parents, Lloyd and Bertha Stanley; and brother and sister-in-law, Bob (Cheryl) Stanley.

Barbara’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her, and she will be deeply missed.