Barbara Begich

Barbara Ann Begich, a resident of Hastings, passed away February 8. Barbara was born in Chicago on January 2, 1952. She is a 1970 graduate of Hastings High School.

While attending high school Barbara was very involved in the theatre program. She continued her interests in theatre and graduated from The College of St. Teresa with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She also earned a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Minnesota.

Barbara shared her enthusiasm for the theatre with her family and friends. Her group of school friends pooled their talents and started the summer theatre Soapsuds in the Park that entertained Hastings with live theatre from Roadside Park for many years and was nationally recognized. She directed plays and participated in summer theatre at the College of St. Teresa, Grand Marais Playhouse, the Depot Theatre in Duluth, University of Minnesota, St. Scholastic Theatre, and directed plays at high schools in Winona and Hastings.

She taught communications and theatre at the College of St. Scholastica, and directed several plays that were performed at the Little Theatre on campus, and was a well known director in the Duluth community.

Barbara enjoyed the magic of Hollywood, particularly older Hollywood, music, watching movies, reading mystery novels, and the solitude of watching waves along a shoreline. She enjoyed being with friends and family especially for game nights during the holidays. Her creative imagination was always fun, and she always encouraged others to follow their dreams whether it was creating a reality on the stage or learning skills to enrich their life. Barbara influenced many to appreciate the arts.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Matt J. and Katherine E. Begich, and brother Matthew all of Hastings. She is survived by siblings Paul (Woodbury), Thomas (Virginia, MN), Katherine (Downey, CA), Robert and wife Kelly (Soldotna, AK), and nieces and nephews Brooke (Mpls), Jacob and Bridger (Soldotna), and Paul and wife Emily and great niece Bridgette (Edina).

A Celebration of Barbara's Life with family and friends will be held on Tuesday February 24, 2026 at 10:00AM at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church with Memorial Mass beginning at 11:00AM and reception to follow.