Barbara Jean Olson, 76, of Palm Harbor, FL passed away on Saturday, August 6th, 2022 at AdventHealth North Pinellas following a week long illness. She was born on November 28th, 1945 in Chicago, IL to loving parents Michael and Betty Burzynski. Barbara was raised in Chicago, IL, then she and her late husband moved to Hanover Park, IL for 25 years before relocating to Palm Harbor, FL in 1999.
On June 22nd, 1963, she married Carl (Ron) Olson at the St Alphonsus Church in Chicago, IL. They shared 55 years of marriage. Barbara loved gardening and spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. She was best known for her strong-willed nature and valuing her independence. Her family and friends will forever remember her signature laugh when she was amused. She prided herself in her ability to keep up with pop culture.
Barbara worked in financial accounting and refined accounting at Unocal in Schaumburg, IL until the branch closed, she then went on to work as a dental office manager until her retirement in 1999. She was so proud of earning her bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University in 1987. Her proudest achievement was her loving marriage of 55 years and being a mother and grandmother.
Barbara was actively involved for many years as a coach, teacher, and leader in the clubs and sports that her children were involved in. She volunteered to help teach English as a second language to immigrants preparing for the English test for US citizenship at her community library. She and her late husband also supported the foster program for the Labrador Retriever Rescue of Florida and she continued to support the Florida Association of State Troopers in honor of her late husband.
Barbara was preceded in death by her loving husband- Ron, father- Michael, and mother- Betty. She is survived by her son- Anthony (Susie); daughter- Natalie Godsil (Joseph); siblings- Michael, Kathleen, Richard, and Robert; grandchildren- Michael (Kayla), Stacy (Joe), Lydia, James, Bridget, and Timothy; great-grandchildren- Elizabeth and Madeline; and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend acknowledgements to the family, friends, and neighbors who honored her wishes and enabled her to remain living at home. In her final years, her family (and their spouses), especially her granddaughter Bridget, devoted themselves to caring for her and her wellbeing. They would also like to thank the staff at AdventHealth North Pinellas and Accent Care Hospice and Palliative Care.
Her graveside service will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Clearwater, FL on Saturday, September 3rd, 2022 at 10:00 AM.
Memorial contributions can be made in her honor at www.SeasonsFoundation.org
Natalie
We are so soryy for your loss. You and the family are in our prayers.
Mrs. Hoy
My Sister, my friend. I will miss her every day until I join her.
Miss you Mom