Bobbi Ettinger-Wilf

It is with profound love and admiration that we honor the life of Barbara “Bobbi” Ettinger-Wilf, a remarkable woman whose courage, resilience, generosity, determination, and extraordinary capacity to love touched countless lives.

Born October 25, 1943, in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Bobbi was a true trailblazer. She built a successful career with MW Ettinger Trucking Company before beginning a second career in women’s fitness at Curves, where she encouraged and empowered many women. Whatever she pursued, Bobbi approached it with discipline, determination, and an unwavering belief that there was always a way forward.

To her family, Bobbi was mom and dad, mentor, cheerleader, and the glue that held everyone together. She led by example, meeting life’s challenges with grit, grace, dignity, and optimism. Guided by the Serenity Prayer, she lived by the simple philosophy of taking life “one day at a time.”

Bobbi embraced life fully and never shied away from an adventure. Driving a truck, skydiving, spearfishing, fitness, singing, and trying new things were all part of her spirited and independent nature. She loved music and shared that joy as a member of the Senior Chorale in Minnetonka. She cherished family gatherings, holidays, laughter, and time with friends and loved ones.

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy, as did her nieces, neighbors, and many friends. She also shared 17½ wonderful years with Sophie. Bobbi had a natural gift for making people feel welcome, valued, and cared for. She often reminded others, “People are different,” encouraging acceptance and compassion, and she urged her grandchildren to “Look into my eyes,” reminding them of the importance of genuine human connection.

Bobbi faced her final two years following a cancer diagnosis with the same courage and determination that defined her life. She continued walking Sophie, going to the gym, singing, spending time with family and friends, and embracing each day.

Bobbi is survived by her three daughters, Jennifer (Charles) Segal, Jill (Dana) Broding, and Tammi (Greg) Alch; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her brother Steve; her special nieces and nephews; sisters and brothers in law; and countless friends, neighbors, drivers, curvy friends, and loved ones. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Morrie Wilf; parents, Archie and Ann Berde; and brothers, Marty and Stan Berde. Bobbi leaves a legacy of courage, compassion, acceptance, perseverance, and love. She made people feel seen, valued, and cherished, and brought energy, laughter, and warmth wherever she went. Her spirit will live on in all who knew and loved her.And, as Bobbi reminded us throughout her life, we will continue to take it “one day at a time.”

A funeral service celebrating Bobbi’s life will be held Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Bet Shalom Congregation, 13613 Orchard Road, Minnetonka, Minnesota 55305. With graveside service to follow. Funeral service will also be available on zoom: www.hodroffs.com/BobbiEttingerwilf
Shiva will be held Sunday and Monday at 7pm. In lieu of flowers, share some string cheese, a smile or hug your family. Or donations to Bet Shalom Congregation https://betshalom.org/dedicated-funds or The Music Association of Minnetonka Senior Chorale https://share.google/Ksuxu32gDUjOfofr9