MUNISING, MI – Barbara Colleen Salo (Osland), age 93, arrived safely in her eternal home on January 16th, 2023, on the merit of her Savior Jesus, who she knew so well.

She began her life in Munising, Michigan, where she graduated from Mather High School, class of 1948. There she met her sweetheart, Reino Salo. What ensued were many dates at the ice cream parlor, a short courtship, a modest wedding, and 63 years of a beautiful, influential, and loving marriage. Together they raised five boys: James, John, Stephan, Timothy, and Matthew, on a strict regimen of discipline, laughter, chores, church, camping trips, prayer, and dinner at 6 p.m.

Family was the focal point of her life: her husband, her children, her siblings, her 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren, and all of her extended family. Barbara never worked outside the home, and she often claimed that she had no “accomplishments.” No extensive resume. No great possessions. No advanced degrees. But to everyone who came near her, she showed the “more excellent way” of Christ, who also did much with none of those things.

She and her husband Reino, who died in 2011, welcomed countless folks into their home, offering hospitality, a meal, counsel, financial aid, laughter, or transportation to friends and strangers alike, anybody they could help.

As a wife and mother, she ran a strict but loving home. She cultivated a rich interior life brimming with prayer and Scripture, something she learned from her mother Katherine. She loved her family and her Lord with gusto. She remained a committed church member her whole life.

She had an infectious sense of humor; never too serious to laugh at Hobo the dog’s antics or to squirt a child with the kitchen sprayer. And what a laugh. She could laugh with her whole body, and sometimes most heartily at herself.

Even in her 90s, the strength of her hugs could surprise you. Any roving niece or grandchild running about the house might find themselves wrapped in an immense, spirited hug. Her family will miss those loving hugs.

She will be remembered on earth for her great faith and sacrificial love, and those who worship the eternal God in heaven now celebrate her unmatched “accomplishments” and the Savior who made them possible.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Jesus Film Project (100 Lake Hart Drive, Dept. 3100, Orlando, FL 32832).