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Barbara Nilsson
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Barbara Nilsson Obituary
HIGHLAND PARK - Mrs. Barbara Jean "Babs" Nilsson (née Reynolds), 86, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday (Sept. 7, 2025) at Advocate Condell Medical Center, Libertyville.
Born on Aug. 23, 1939, in Champaign, Barbara was a proud graduate of Watseka High School, Class of 1957. Her early years in Illinois laid the foundation for a life marked by curiosity, resilience and deep devotion to her family.
Barbara shared many cherished years with her beloved husband, Lars Ivar Lennart Nilsson, who preceded her in death. Together they built a family that became the center of Barbara's world.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Kelly (Dan), Kristy, Shaun, Tobias and Paola (Judah). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Chloe (Nick), Caroline, Mary Grace (Bryan), Ashley, Connor, Ryan, Aubry, Caitlin and Dylan; and great-grandsons, Cyrus Jabez Spalding and Sebastian Lars Seefeld.
Known affectionately as "Babs," Barbara was an avid reader whose love of books enriched her life and inspired those around her. She also found great joy in traveling - a passion that allowed her to explore new places and cultures with enthusiasm and wonder. She found her way into so many hearts with a sharp wit and infectious laugh. Barbara's warmth and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived.
Barbara will be laid to rest with Lars in Svedala, Sweden. The family will be holding a private memorial.
To celebrate Barbara, please consider a donation to the Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago campaign for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
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Funeral services provided by:
Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home & Crematory1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, IL 60035
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