- Date Of Birth: January 16, 1944
- Date Of Death: February 6, 2022
- State: Utah
On Sunday morning, February 6th, 2022, our sweet, yet spicy Mom, Barbara F. Olsen, 78, made her way to Heaven. She was born on January 16th, 1944 in Ogden, Utah; the only child of George and Freida Clifton. She spent her entire childhood growing up in Ogden and being a self-proclaimed bookworm, she spent many Saturdays with her Mom at the library. Mom proudly graduated from Ogden High School in 1962 and then went on to earn her Associate degree from Stevens Henager College. She later worked at HAFB and retired as a Contracting Officer after 28 years.
Mom married Tom Openshaw soon after graduating and together they were blessed with their 3 children: Shane, Sean, and Jackie. While married, Mom enjoyed cruising with Dad in his hot rod cars, riding the Trail 70 minibike, and boating. She was always the “fun Mom” and there were many wonderful memories made during this time.
Mom and Dad were later divorced, and she went on to marry Kerry L. Olsen in 1982. With that union, she gained 4 more children whom she loved like her own: Mark, Kent, Jone, and Troy. Together, Mom and Kerry simply enjoyed each other’s company – no matter what they did or where they went-they were the life of every party and Mom was his Queen. They spent 29 years making millions of special memories together and Kerry preceded her in death in 2011. They are most certainly swing dancing together again in Heaven.
As spunky as she was, she had the kindest heart – she never met a stranger – everyone wanted to be around “Barb.” Mom’s happy place was her home and it showed; she always had the most beautiful yard in the neighborhood.
Mom was always our biggest cheerleader not only in all of our activities but also just in our lives. She often said that her proudest moments revolved around her kids and grandkids. She always put everyone else’s needs and wants before her own no matter what, she was the strongest woman we knew, and she is the kind of Mom, Grandma, and friend that most of us can only hope to be. We are all so blessed to have had her in our lives and she will be missed beyond measure. Fly with the angels Momma!
Mom is survived by her kids and grandkids: Shane (Suzanne), Sean (Tsi Tsi), Jackie (Brian), Nick, Lexi, Gage, and Jaxon. She also leaves behind so many special friends including Belinda, Brad, and Annie. Thank you for always keeping an eye out and for loving our Mom. We also wish to thank Symbii Home Health and Hospice specifically Michelle McQueen and Jerley.
