Obituary

Barbara Lunde 1939—2018
Barbara Lunde, 78, of Rockford, passed away on October 26, 2018. Born on November 29, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, the daughter of Otto Wilhelm and Ady Selma (Haroldsson) Benson. Barbara graduated from Melvindale High School and Augustana College. She married Richard Lunde on October 13, 1962 in Detroit, Michigan. Barbara's primary passion was her family and friends. She was her grandchildren's biggest fan no matter what activity they were involved in. Next to her family was promoting Swedish heritage and the city of Rockford. Her drive for connecting Sweden and Rockford included being an active board member of the Swedish Historical Society, serving as an International Representative for the Rockford Area Convention and Visitor's Bureau, facilitating a sister city relationship with Borgholm, assisting in the development of the Nordic Cultural Center, and earning the Swedish Council of America's Merit Award. Her advocacy for Rockford was reflected in being a founding member of the Klehm Arboretum Board, a Women's Art Board member, and member of Rockford Garden Club among numerous other activities. As a former Girl Scout leader she was extremely proud of her five Eagle Scout grandsons. Survived by her husband, Richard; children, Michael (Pam) Lunde, Christine Smith; and John Lunde; grandchildren, Eric, Matthew, Alex, Stephen, and David Lunde, and Allison and Abigail Smith; brother, Harold (Maj) Benson; nieces Karen and Laura; daughter-in-law, Christina; and son-in-law, Mike. Predeceased by her parents.
Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2018 in Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 920 Third Ave., Rockford, with Reverend Dr. Michael Thomas officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, November 2, 2018 in Fred C. Olson Chapel, 1001 Second Ave. and from 10:00 to 10:45 prior to the service on Saturday in the church. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. Memorials may be given to the Swedish Historical Society, 404 S. 3rd, Rockford, IL 61104. To share a memory or send an online condolence, visit olsonfh.com