Barbro (Johnson) Olson (1839-1919)

JOHNSON, OLSON, ELLEFLOD, OAKLAND, GORD

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 8/14/2023 at 20:52:39

From The Slater News October 15, 1919 (page 1)

MRS. BARBRO OLSON CALLED BY DEATH

She Passed Away on Wednesday Evening, Last Week, After a Lengthy Illness.

Mrs. Barbro Olson passed into the great beyond on Wednesday evening last week, after a lengthy illness. While poorly for many months, she had been bedfast only a part of the time and there were occasions when friends had hopes that she might recover. Of late, however, it became evident that she could not live long and her death on Wednesday evening did not come as a surprise.

Funeral services were held from the Bethlehem church on Friday afternoon and were attended by a large crowd. The services were in charge of her pastor, Rev. Bjorlie, who gave an address in the Norwegian language. He was assisted by Rev. Duea, who spoke in the English language. The choir led the singing and then there were special numbers--a solo by Mrs. A. L. Peterson and a trio by Mrs. Peterson, Miss Minerva Ersland and Rev. Bjorlie. Burial was made in the family lot in the Palestine cemetery, where the remains now rest beside those of her husband, who died in April, 1899. At the cemetery Rev. Bueland joined the crowd and gave a few fitting remarks. She had formerly been a member of the Palestine congregation.

Deceased reached an age of 80 years, 8 months and 21 days, being born in Norway on January 19, 1839. She came to America in June, 1865. She was married to Sam Olson in the fall of the same year. Eight children were born to them, three boys and five girls. Of these, six are now dead, leaving two daughters, Mrs. Jane Elleflod and Miss Josie, to mourn the death of a dear mother. She is also survived by a sister, Mrs. Ole Oakland, of New Sharon, Iowa, and a grandson, Mr. Shirley Gord of Ames.

Deceased used to make her home on a farm southeast of Huxley, where the family lived for many years previous to taking up their residence in Slater. Her husband was a veteran of the Civil war and had the misfortune to lose one of his arms in the great conflict.

Mrs. Olson was at all times affiliated with church work, taking a deep interest in whatever there was to be done. She was charitably inclined and was very free with her money when it came to render the needy ones assistance. Her heart went out especially to the unfortunate ones, who had in her a good friend. Though preferring always to take the less prominent part, she could always be depended upon to do her share. She will be missed.