Barbara Ann Ogle
February 17, 1949 – October 19, 2025
Barbara Ann Ogle (nee Sweeney), daughter of John and Wilma Sweeney, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2025, surrounded by love.
Born on February 17, 1949, Barbara was the eldest of six siblings and lovingly led the way for her brothers and sisters—Rosie Flamuth (nee Sweeney – preceded in death), Patti Sweeney, Dan Sweeney (preceded in death), Nancy Stamer (nee Sweeney – preceded in death) and John Sweeney.
Barbara was preceded in death by her late husband Ken Ogle, and the proud mother of two daughters, Lisa Kilcullen (nee Rehg) and Jenny Kohlberg (nee Ogle), and cherished mother-in-law to Steve Kohlberg. She adored her five grandchildren—Anna Kilcullen, Jack Kilcullen, Maggie Kohlberg, Max Kohlberg, and Sam Kohlberg, who lovingly called her “Mimi.” Barbara also shared her life with her devoted partner of ten years, John Griesel, who brought great joy and companionship to her later years.
A bright and driven student, Barbara was active in countless clubs and organizations and was a proud member of the National Honor Society. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting in the early 1970s and achieved her CPA certification, paving the way for a successful career. Barbara held several respected roles in accounting and ultimately served in an executive role as the Director of Shortage and Controls for Famous-Barr Department Stores.
After retiring early, Barbara continued to live life to the fullest. She launched an independent survey company, renovated multiple buildings as a landlord, and traveled extensively—always eager to explore new places and embrace new adventures.
Barbara’s energy and generosity were unmatched. She was the kind of person who lit up every room she entered, with a smile that could warm any heart. Her upbeat outlook, quick wit, and boundless compassion left lasting impressions on everyone she met. As “Mimi,” she poured her love into creating cherished memories with her grandchildren—planning tea parties, girls’ and boys’ weekends, holiday celebrations, game nights, family trips, and more.
Barbara’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and generosity. Everyone who knew Barb loved Barb—and the world will never be quite the same without her.
Perfect tribute to my beautiful sister. The most important things in her life were not things but people. She showed her deep love for her children through not just words, but actions. Her grandkids were so important to her, and she loved them beyond measure. She would always have a funny story to tell about something that it happened involving them or her kids. She loved John. They traveled all over the world together.
She was generous. A couple things come to mind. Years ago when we were in St. Thomas together, I had wanted a blue diamond ring. And I found the perfect ring. It had an over a carat marquis, diamond, surrounded by blue diamonds. It was exactly what I’ been looking for for years. I think we both maxed out our credit cards to buy it.
More recently, I had seen an antique pin on eBay. And again, it was quite pricey. During some conversation, I had mentioned it to her. And she had asked me what it looked like. I was so surprised when it arrived in the mail as a gift from her.
And one last story about her generosity. She had a lawn cutting service that had been cutting her lawn for a few years. The person in charge had fallen down on his luck a bit and didn’t have a car. He mentioned it to her. He wasn’t looking for any assistance. He was just having conversation. But she had two cars. So she gave him one of them. And when I say, gave him one of them, I mean, she gave it to him with no cost to him whatsoever.
I learned so many things from her. How to stand up for yourself. Don’t let anybody bully you. Handle things with kindness if you can. Be generous. Family are the most important people in your life. Be good to others.
If everyone followed my sister’s way of thinking and kindness toward others, the world would be a much better place.
I loved her with all my heart, and I will miss her dearly.