Obituaries

April 27, 1938 to February 14, 2023

RENSSELAER - Barbara F. Olson, 84, of Rensselaer, passed away Tuesday, Feb. 14, at her residence surrounded by her loving family.

She was born April 27, 1938, in Monon, the daughter of Paul D. and Mary (Goble) Cooley. She graduated from Francesville High School with the Class of 1956. She also attended business school. On Sept. 1, 1957, she married Marvin Olson, who survives.

Barbara Olson

She is also survived by children, Cathy (Christopher) Grow of Crown Point, and Sherry (Michael) Staudt of Rensselaer; grandchildren, Lindsey (Ryan) Preston, Katie Staudt, Chad Staudt, Tyler Hitchings, Justin (Kaylyn) Staudt; and great-grandson, Anson.

She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Betty Wheeldon.

Mrs. Olson and her husband shared a wonderful 65 years together and both enjoyed wintering in Arcadia, Fla. for 30 years. She worked as a switchboard operator for the Lafayette Journal & Courier newspaper for a year, at Winamac Cleaners, and owned and managed True Value Hardware in Monon, for several years. She was a farmer’s wife, who helped on the farm, even operating all of the farm equipment. She was a member of the Trinity United Methodist and taught children’s ministries within the church. She was a member of the Milroy Home-Ec Club and loved gardening. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, quilting, traveling, and camping. She loved babies, all animals, and spending time outdoors. Above all, she really enjoyed being with her family and was especially devoted to her grandchildren.

Friends may call on the family at Trinity United Methodist Church of Rensselaer from 10 a.m. to 12 noon (CT), Friday, Feb. 17. A funeral service will follow at 12 noon, at the church with Pastor Andy Martin officiating. Internment at Weston Cemetery, Rensselaer.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church of Rensselaer or Southern Care Hospice of Lafayette.

Arrangements entrusted to Jackson Funeral Chapels, Rensselaer.