Barbara Gmitro-Best Obituary Barbara Mary Gmitro-Best, 64, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, June 25th, 2024, at home in the arms of her beloved husband Steven. Family and friends are welcome to join us in celebration of her beautiful life. Services will be held at 11:00 am. on July 3rd at Nelson-Doran funeral home in Brainerd, MN. Visitation with the family will be at 10 am. If you feel so inclined, wear pink. Shed love that. Barb's service will be livestreamed via nelson-doran.com. Barb was born on November 21st, 1959, in Minneapolis, Mn. She was a graduate of Spring Lake Park High School. She married Steven M. Best on August 25th, 1985. Together, they shared 39 years of marriage, and were looking forward to celebrating their 40th anniversary. Barb had beautiful big brown eyes and the deepest dimples you've ever seen. Her smile was contagious, and her laugh was unforgettable. She was the kindest and most gentle person youd ever meet. If you knew her, you were blessed. If she loved you, you never had to question it. She had so many friends from all walks of life, and she loved them all. She was a gifted card creator and was nationally recognized for her incredible talent. She loved sending them to her friends and family. Her favorite ones to send were the surprise ones just to "say hello". Many of her beautiful cards have been published in magazines across the country. If you were blessed with one of Barbs cards, please feel free to bring it to the Service on Wednesday to share with her family. She accomplished so much in her life, but her biggest achievement was being the "Best" Gramma ever! She loved her 3 grandchildren immensely. There was nothing that brought her more joy than them. Barb was also a lover of animals, big and small, furry and feathered. She loved to spoil her dog Josie and her multiple rescue cats. Her favorite place on earth was her lake home. She loved listening to the loons, reading under the sun, and taking long pontoon rides. The lake was her happy place. Every day she got to spend there was a good one. She was an avid reader and had the most amazing library of books. She loved getting lost in a good book. You could always count on her for an honest review or the perfect suggestion for your next read. Barb is survived by her husband Steve Best, who loved her dearly, daughter Sam (Josh) Christy, son Colin Best, and her 3 grandchildren whom she cherished the most. Carson (12), Coen (11), and Cooke (11 months) Christy. Barb was greeted in heaven by her parents, Edward and Sally Gmitro, whom she greatly missed. We may not be able to be with you now, but we know you are always with us. You will be forever in our hearts and always on our minds. Every time the sun shines or the loons call, we will think of you. We love you more than there are words to express. Until we meet again.