Barbara J. Olson (Novotne), age 77, of Rochester, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on March 11, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital after a short and courageous battle with cancer.
Barbara was born on March 30, 1948, in Rochester, Minnesota, to Kenneth and Alice (Larson) Novotne. She grew up in the Rochester community and remained deeply connected to the place she always called home.
Barbara dedicated many years of service to Olmsted County, working at the Olmsted County Jail as a Correctional Deputy and later as a Sergeant. She approached her work with fairness, strength, and compassion, earning the respect of colleagues and the community she served.
Barbara was a loving mother to her two children, Dr. Timothy Olson (Carol) of Pawcatuck, Connecticut, and Jannis Hanson of Rochester, Minnesota. Her greatest joy in life was being a grandmother to her five beloved grandchildren: Molly, Connor, and Joshua Olson, and Brenden and Kennedy Hanson. They brought endless happiness to her life and were the center of her heart.
From 2014 to 2023, Barbara lived in Connecticut, where she cherished spending time with her son, daughter-in-law, and three of her grandchildren. These years together created many treasured memories.
Barbara had a love for travel and adventure. Hawaii held a special place in her heart, and she visited the islands 21 times throughout her life. She also enjoyed traveling to places such as Turkey and Mexico, always appreciating the opportunity to explore new cultures and landscapes.
When she was home, Barbara found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved feeding and watching the birds and backyard wildlife, planting flowers, reading, and spending time with friends. Her home and garden were places of warmth, peace, and welcome.
She is survived by her children, Dr. Timothy Olson (Carol) and Jannis Hanson; her grandchildren, Molly, Connor, and Joshua Olson, and Brenden and Kennedy Hanson; and her siblings, Kay Rasmussen, Tom Novotne (Cindy), Harley Novotne (Vicky), and Vernon Novotne, all of Rochester.
Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Alice (Larson) Novotne; her brother, Rolland Novotne; and her sister, Jann (Novotne) Peters.
Barbara will be remembered for her strength, kindness, adventurous spirit, and deep love for her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held this summer, with more information to come.
I had a wonderful conversation with Barb at our last class reunion 10 years ago. My heart goes out to her family and friends – may their memories of their lives with her bring them comfort.
Barbara was a good friend while she was living in Connecticut. I am very glad that I got to meet her. She often shared interesting and entertaining life stories which were a pleasure to listen to.
I am so sorry for your loss.
I cherish the talk Barb and I had at our 50th reunion! May you be at peace with the Lord, Barb
I remember her at Jefferson Elementary School in Rochester. She and I were in some of the same
classes together. She lived not far from me in NE Rochester. I am sorry to hear of her passing.