Barbara “Barb” Johnson
Barbara “Barb” Johnson, age 70, passed away on Wednesday, August 31st 2022 at Olivia Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Olivia MN, after an extended illness. A celebration of life will be at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 7th 2022 at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Bird Island with Pastor Dan Croonquist officiating. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. Burial will be at the Lake Lillian Baptist Cemetery in Rural Lake Lillian. Arrangements are by Dirks-Blem Funeral Service of Olivia.
Barbara Kay Johnson was born on February 25, 1952 to Alfred and Darlene (Kramer) Minkel in Olivia, MN. Barb attended and graduated from Olivia High School. Barb was united in marriage to Algene Johnson on December 18, 1972. They lived in many different places while raising their two children, Darla and Jerrit. In 1996, they were proud to finally purchase a house and call Bird Island home. Barb was a very hard and dedicated worker. She worked for many years at Blackburn Inc. in Olivia before spending the rest of her work career at Golden Oval Eggs/ Rembrandt Enterprises in Renville MN. Barb suffered a devastating, sudden stroke 8 years ago causing left side paralysis and creating many other medical complications. Although her body made life difficult for her these past 8 years she never lost her positive attitude, ability to love others, show her kindness and sense of humor. She was a true fighter to the end. Since her stroke, she has spent her most recent years at Glesener’s (MBW) in Bird Island and the Olivia Rehab and Healthcare Center (as well as many hospital stays).
She enjoyed playing cards, fishing, gardening, canning and was an AMAZING cook. Always willing to try new recipes and share with others. When she was able, Barb loved going to craft shows and shopping with Darla. Her very favorite past time was playing bingo with Sandy and Darla, there was never a dull moment, sharing many laughs and good times. She loved her family beyond measure. She had a very tight bond with sister, Sandy, her kids, her grandkids (Hayley, Kortney and Tyler) and great-granddaughter, Tinley brought a special sparkle to her eyes. She loved the visits from the Hoff boys and their families and all who would come to visit her. She will be remembered for being quiet and soft spoken with a heart of gold, that would do anything for anyone.
Barb is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Darla and John Bajari; grandkids, Hayley Ruschen, Kortney Ruschen, and Tyler Ruschen; great-granddaughter, Tinley Ruschen; sister Sandy Hoff; nephews and families: Wayne and Carrie Hoff (Paige and Jenna), Jamie and Kim Hoff (Myla and Maverick) and Jonny Hoff; sister-in-law, Gerie (Tom) Benson; step-children and families, Pauline (Gary) Melin (Madison), Pam (Keith) Blad (Darcie (Luke) Braaten and Sydney, Grace, Stella, and Brynnley), and Perry Johnson; and many other nieces, nephews and special family. Barb was preceded in death by her husband Algene; son, Jerrit; parents, Alfred and Darlene; mother and father-in-law, Cecil and Elsie Johnson; sister-in-law, Dorothy Allen; brothers-in-law, Larry Hoff and Harvey Allen; niece, Sara Benson; and great-nephew, Isaac Hoff.
Blessed Be Her Memory
