Barbara Olsen

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Barbara “Bobbe” Olsen, nee Hesse, 88, of Belleville, IL, born June 2, 1934, died Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Dammert Care Center at the Shrine, Belleville, IL.

Bobbe retired as Office Manager form FGM Architects where she worked with her architect husband, Jack, and with employees who became family.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Jack E. Olsen, whom she married on February 21, 1959, and who died on September 23, 2022; her parents, Carl and Viola, nee Wolf, Hesse; and her brother, 1st Lieutenant William Hesse.

She is survived by her three children, Jami, Kirk, and Greg (Maria);
five grandchildren, Jacquelin, Saeger (Makaila), Matthew (Gabrielle), Anna (Sheldon), and Melissa;
and three great-grandchildren, Kreed, Kash, and Aurelia.

The family would like to thank the staff at Dammert Care Center and Hospice of Southern Illinois for their compassion and outstanding care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Bobbe’s memory to the World Bird Sanctuary, 125 Bald Eagle Ridge Road Eureka, MO 63088, or online at www.worldbirdsanctuary.org. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.

A celebration of her life will be from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 12, 2023, at Renner Funeral Home, Belleville, IL. There will be a memorial service at Renner Funeral Home from 3 to 3:30 p.m. Rev. Michelle Torigian with St. Paul United Church of Christ, Belleville, IL, officiating.

 

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5 Comments on Barbara Olsen

Gene Behrmann said : Guest Report Mar 07, 2023 at 12:25 PM

Jami, Kirk, and Greg: My sincere condolences on the passing of a wonderful lady. I had the pleasure of working with Bobbe the last half-dozen years before her well-deserved retirement. As you are certainly aware, being the spouse to an architect has its challenges, especially when as involved in the firm management and professional associations as your dad. But Bobbe was a respected professional in her own right to FGM’s Clients, Consultants, and the Contractors, but especially to her Coworkers. She was the glue that kept the team together. After their retirement, it was always a highlight of the subsequent Christmas parties at Tim and Judi’s to catch up on their travels, and of course, Bobbe bragging about her beloved grandkids. We are better for having known her, and for working with her.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Joy Kamper Cross said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2023 at 1:22 PM

I am so sorry to learn of the deaths of both Bobbe and Jack. Our families were neighbors and great friends for many years. After moving from Belleville nearly 30 years ago we kept in touch, particularly with the proverbial exchange of Christmas cards and letters.

  • Little River
  • South Carolina
Jeffrey Junck said : Guest Report Mar 04, 2023 at 10:57 AM

We lived next to Carl and Vi when I was born in 1953. Barbara and Vi would take time to play with me and keep me occupied. They were such kind and great people. I was surprised when Barbara and I Ireconnected on Facebook several years ago. I pray for comfort and fond memories for your family.

  • Mountain Home
  • AR
Bill Reichert said : Guest Report Mar 02, 2023 at 10:01 PM

A great Lady. I am so happy to have known her and Jack. Both were mentors of mine. Sadly missed. I just spoke to her 2 weeks ago at our usual meeting place. Schnucks since Fischer’s closed.

  • Belleville
  • IL
Mary Barbara Kurtz said : Guest Report Mar 02, 2023 at 3:55 PM

Jami and Family... Jim and I are so deeply saddened to hear of your mom's passing. Your mom was like a mother to Jim when he worked at FGM. She held a very special place in our hearts. We hope you find comfort in knowing your mom and dad are together again. They were an awesome couple! Sending our love... Mary Barbara and Jim

  • Belleville
  • IL

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