Barbara Barb Olson, 75, died on Friday, July 8, 2011 at her home in Thief River Falls, MN, surrounded by her loving family.

Funeral services will be 10:30 AM, Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at United Methodist Church in Thief River Falls, MN with Rev. Rob Kopp officiating. Burial will follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Thief River Falls, MN.

Visitation will be from 5-8 PM, Monday, July 11, 2011 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with a Prayer Service at 7:00 PM. Visitation will also be held for one hour prior to the funeral service at the church on Tuesday.

Barbara Lois Ann Froseth was born on January 6, 1936 in Thief River Falls, MN, the daughter of Clarence Ole and Rose (Dostal) Froseth. She grew up in and attended school in Thief River Falls, graduating from Lincoln High School in 1954. Following graduation, she worked at the S & L store for a time.

Barb was united in marriage to Erling Olson on June 16, 1956 at the Methodist Church. They made their home in Thief River Falls where she raised her family. In 1959, Barb and Erl purchased the Froseth Food Market. They changed the name to Erls in 1974. In 1984, they rebuilt the building which the family still owns and operates today.

Barb loved to dance. She had a heart of gold and was a kind and caring person. She enjoyed gardening, fishing, and playing Bingo. She donated many hours of her time to the hospital and nursing home. Her grandchildren and great grandchildren were very special to her. She also found it important to shop in town. She was a member of the United Methodist Church and active with the Ladies Aid. She was also a member of the Eagles Club and Auxiliary, Thief River Falls Bowling Association, and an active golfer. She treasured her dogs.

Barb is survived by her husband Erling, three sons: Jeffrey (Julie) Olson, Michael (special friend Angela) Olson, Bradley (Melissa) Olson, all of Thief River Falls, MN, eight grandchildren: Chad, Anthony, Makenzie, Nachele, Ben, Nick, Garrett, Carter, 2 great grandchildren: Alanna and Maizie, and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; two grandchildren, Brody and Kelsey Olson, and one sister Eileen Reierson.

ORGANIST: Reid Froiland
SPEAKER: Roger Reierson
SOLOIST: Jeff Liden
SELECTIONS: On Eagles Wings, Go Rest High on That Mountain
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: In The Garden, Here I Am Lord
PALLBEARERS: All of Barbaras Grandchildren
HONORARY PALLBEARERS: Her many family and friends