Barbara L. Olkiewicz
January 6, 1936 ~ November 7, 2024
Barbara L. "Babs" Olkiewicz, a member of the Columbus, Indiana, community, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2024, at the full age of 88, surrounded by the love and warmth of her family.
Born in Columbus on January 6, 1936, she lived a life that was a testament to her loving, spirited, and generous nature. Babs dedicated her life to the happiness and well-being of her family, embracing the vital role of a homemaker to support her beloved husband, Donald J. Olkiewicz, and their children, Mark Thomas Olkiewicz and Laura Ann Veazey. She considered her grandson, Austin Veazey, one of her greatest joys, delighting in every opportunity to be a part of his life. Her heart remained ever connected to her roots, born to the late Ernest Freese and Christina Marcum, and predeceased by her brother, Ronald L. Freese, and sister, Phyllis J. Freese.
Active in her faith, Babs was a life member of the First Christian Church and contributed meaningfully to her community. She was especially engaged as a school volunteer and was an ardent supporter of the Columbus Historical Society. Her zest for life was further expressed through her love of the arts, including painting, and an unwavering appetite for reading that kept her mind ever curious and lively.
Barbara "Babs" Olkiewicz will be remembered fondly for her enduring positive influence and the heartfelt legacy she leaves behind.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home with Al White officiating. Following the service, she will be laid to rest in Garland Brook Cemetery. Friends and family are invited to a time of visitation on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be given to the First Christian Church through the funeral home in memory of Barbara.
You are invited to view her video tribute and share a favorite memory or condolence with the Olkiewicz family via the funeral home website: www.jewellrittman.com
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Beautiful in Blue was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
A Memorial Tree was planted in honor of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
Stephen and Lainey Dirks purchased the Crystal Cross Bouquet for the family of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
Stephen and Lainey Dirks planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
We are very sorry to hear of this unexpected loss. Please accept our heartfelt condolences, and may your memories bring peace and comfort to you and your family.
R. and G. Honzik
13 files added to the album Babs
I met Mrs.O in the late 1980’s at the University of Central Florida, in which her son Mark “O” was one of my dear friends. Even through several decades and literally countries apart, Mrs. O. made an impact on my life. Not only did she sometimes give me good advice on life challenges, but her compassion was a calming factor. This inspirational woman was one of the last of her kind. REST IN PEACE MRS.O! My condolence and prayers go out to Mr.O, Mark O, Laura and other loved ones.
Mark Olkiewicz is following this tribute.
Simply Elegant Spathiphyllum was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
Forever Our Angel Bouquet was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
A Memorial Tree was planted in honor of Barbara L. Okiewicz.
Proveli purchased the Sweetest Sunrise Bouquet for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Proveli planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Best Aunt one could ask for. Even though we were a coast away she still made an effort to be in my life. When I was younger she painted me a Bart Simpson painting of which I still have. After my mom passed when I was young, she was always only a phone call away. I enjoyed visiting with her in my later years when I would come home for Christmas. She made the best treats. I will miss our talks, her wisdom, and her daily posts on Facebook. Love you always, Helen Wright (Freese)
Helen, Lindsay, Bostyn, and Tynlee purchased the Blue Caribbean Bouquet for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Enchanted Cottage was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Full Of Love Bouquet was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
A sympathy card was purchased for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
My dear Babs, I am so going to miss you.
We first met years ago during a real estate transaction. Our friendship continued on.
I will miss those bitmoji stickers text from you wishing me a good day, sleep good, and always a special one for the holidays. Or thinking of you.
She was always a joy to be around.
I am so blessed to have spent some special time with her just 3 days before she left us to be with our God.
No eyes has seen, no ears has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him.
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Quazi and Nazish purchased the Arrive in Style for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Quazi and Nazish planted a Memorial Tree in honor of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.
Ed Honzik purchased the Arrive in Style for the family of Barbara L. Olkiewicz.