Born to Lois Ann Wood and William A. Johnston the young family lived in Highland Park and then Wilmette Illinois. The home was filled with beautiful girls as Barbara had three sisters, Phyllis (Candi) Johnston / Petersen, Carol Johnston / Bruemmer and Susie Johnston / Lipp.
Barbara attended New Trier High School where she met and later married Richard Norberg. They had to children, Richard Norberg Jr. and Robin Ann Norberg / Cavanagh.
After the passing of her youngest sister Barbara became guardian for her sister’s daughter Veronica Lipp. She loved the addition to her family and made certain that Veronica never knew the absence of love. Barbara was quite proud of the daughter that Veronica had grown to be.
Barbara’s passions included traveling, gardening, sailing, family and the rescue of the many less fortunate pets. Twelve dogs in all were fortunate to find themselves in Barbara’s love and care.
Barbara enjoyed a long career with Signode corporation which later became ITW in Glenview Illinois.
After conquering cancer Barbara was married to Paul Olson in a ceremony in Dunedin Florida in 2007. This began a wonderful chapter in her life in which she moved to her dream home in Palm Harbor Florida. She prepared and decorated their new home with love and care. Paul and Barbara had a wonderful life together.
She made lifelong friends throughout her life both during her time at ITW and during her new time in Palm Harbor. She loved her new community and would often be found working in her beautiful gardens of walking with her dog’s through her neighborhood.
She was a shining light both for her family and the many that encountered her warm embrace. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Suncoast Animal League on behalf of Barbara Johnston-Olson. Graveside Service will be held Friday July 27th at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 5233 118th Ave. N. Clearwater, Fl. 33760 at a 11am
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Suncoast Animal League
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