Barbara Anne Olson

Barbara Anne Olson, age 80, of Whitefish, MT passed away at home peacefully and gracefully on July 15, 2022 surrounded by both her husband, Dennis; and son, Don.   Barbara was born  February 24, 1942 in Whitefish, MT   to the late Claudius Burkett Gilliland and Elizabeth Gilliland (McKeen). 

Barbara grew up in Whitefish (3rd generation) with her inseparable twin brother Bob (Robert Wayne Gilliland) and older brother Ed (Edwin Bruce Gilliland).  Barbara loved her brothers dearly and they all had a wonderful childhood growing up in the quiet town of Whitefish. 
Upon graduating from Whitefish High School in 1960, Barbara attended college in Havre, Mt where she would eventually meet her husband, Dennis. They were married in March of 1964.   Barbara then attended Montana State and the University of Montana.  Later she would attend classes at Stanford University in California where she received her Master's degree in teaching.  
 
Barbara was an elementary school teacher for 30+ years (never took a sick day), with an absolute passion and commitment to children.  When it came to the subject of teaching she once said, “It’s not so much about teaching as it is about bringing your enthusiasm, fun, and love to the students.” She brought her love and enthusiasm to various schools throughout Montana, including Havre, Libby, Noxon, Arlee, Eureka, and she retired from teaching in Whitefish in 1988. After retirement, she continued to teach in Florence, AZ where she and her husband Dennis lived during the winter months.  
Barbara had numerous hobbies in her retirement years, but one of her most passionate hobbies was practicing Tai Chi.  She travelled the country attending Tai Chi seminars and would pass on her knowledge as a volunteer teacher in both Florence Gardens, AZ and Whitefish, MT.   
 In addition to Tai Chi, Barbara loved to bring joy to others through photography and pictures.  Whether at a family reunion or a wedding, Barbara was always armed with a camera.  She attending dozens of weddings and was always looking for the perfect, behind the scenes opportunity that the professionals might miss. Her pictures were always a big hit and a wonderful gift for the wedding couple.  
 
 Barbara had a relentless passion for learning and knowledge; but not so much for basketball or sports. When her husband, Dennis, was attending the local high school sporting event, Barbara could usually be found wrapped in a warm blanket on the couch consumed in a book.   In her younger adult days, Barbara was a terrific artist, as well, and enjoyed drawing portraits for others.    
 
However, when together, both Barbara and Dennis had a passion for “fun” and people.  Whether it be at the Blue Moon dancing up a storm or hanging out with family and friends, Barbara would be at her happiest.  She loved all her McKeen cousins and always looked forward to the annual family reunions. 
Barbara will be missed, but what will be missed most is the subtle joy and happiness that she brought to other people’s lives.  When you were around Barbara, you couldn’t help but to feel good. 
 
Barbara is survived by her husband of 58 years, Dennis Lee Olson; and son, Donald Lee Olson. 
 
A “Celebration of Life” for Barbara Anne Olson will be held at 3pm on Sat. July 30th at the United Methodist Church in Whitefish at 1150 Wisconsin Ave.   Following will be a celebration of life potluck. Please bring a dish if convenient. To send online condolences, please visit www.austinfh.com.  

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Barbara Anne Olson, please visit our floral store.