Irmgard Barbara Olson

Irmgard Barbara Olson, 86
Rockford- Irmgard Barbara Olson, 86, passed away June 2, 2017 at Alpine Fireside Health Center. Born Sept. 18, 1930 in Munich, Germany, the daughter of George and Bette Pfleger. She grew up in Nurnbürg, Germany during the war. Then later went on to earn a bachelor degree in business. She came to the United States in 1954 and worked as an executive bilingual secretary at Plasser American, then later owning and operating Simple Treasures Stained glass Shop where she created many beautiful stain glass pieces. The wife life of a military man she traveled to and lived in many states and countries, including Japan. Finally settling in Rockford to raise her family.
She was generous, loving, and a source of strength and encouragement. Her quick wit and charming personality endeared her to those who knew her. She had a great love of nature and for all of God's creatures, especially her many pets over the years. She enjoyed reading and she saw beauty in even the simplest things.
Barbara was a wonderful mother and grandmother. She will be truly missed by her children and her grandchildren will miss their "Omi".
Survived by children Harold (Michelle) Barnes, Serena (John) Ingrassia, and Clyde (Vanessa) Barnes; grandchildren, Michael Ingrassia, Geoffrey Barnes, Kristina Ingrassia, Karlina Barnes, Brianna Barnes, and Carter Barnes; great grandchildren Avrie Boxa and Elena Ingrassia-Hernandez.
Predeceased by parents and husband Waldemar "Wally" Olson.
Special thanks to the staff at Alpine Fireside, OSF Hospice and the many Homecare givers for their extra care and attention.
A private service will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, with a burial at Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in her name. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford, IL 61108. – Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com