Barbara Ann Kahlson

Barbara Ann Kahlson, age 87, of Hilton Head,SC (formerly of Pittsburgh, PA) passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026. She is preceded in death by her parents, William Bigge and Louise Loxterman, her brothers Bill and Bob Bigge and her husband, Richard Kahlson.

Barb was born on January 7, 1939. She was a graduate of Brentwood High School in PA where she met lifelong friend, Jeannie Webb. They were majorettes there and continued their friendship over 50 years. Barb attended the University of Pittsburgh and graduated from the Mercy School of Nursing as a Registered nurse. She worked for many years at both Kane and Mercy Hospital while at the same time raising 6 children. Her devoted friends, Nick and Joan DeRosa were an instrumental part of their lives. She trained nurses at Mercy School of Nursing and worked in their critical care burn units. When she met her true love, Richard later in life, she retired and together they traveled the world. They spent years volunteering their services at the Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh and consulted on engineering projects in Russia. They enjoyed countless other adventures across the globe. Their South Side flat in Pittsburgh became the hub of many Christmas parties with many dear friends, including Katie and Jon Oberle.

Her children will remember her as a hard working, determined and loving mother. She was a voracious reader of nonfiction and devoured historical works. Other passions included ice skating, attending broadway shows, and spending time with her grandchildren. She rarely complained. Barb adjusted to the difficulties of aging and moved from place to place according to her needs without batting an eye. She was often heard saying, “I’ll bloom where I’m planted.” She loved attending church and celebrated the relationship she had with Christ. She was a devoted Christian and found peace in singing hymns every Sunday.

She leaves behind her 6 children. Dan Takach (Lisa), Suzanne Bastien (Mark), Pamela Rupprecht (Sadler), Douglas Takach ( Lou Anne), Jill and Mark Takach. Additionally, 12 Grandchildren, Jaron Takach, Douglas Takach( Jessica), Adam Takach ( Heather), Jessica Corn (Ryan), Jason Bastien, Matthew Huston, Victoria Huston, James Daly, David Huston, Jenna Takach, Brendan Takach and Veronica Takach will miss their “Granny” as well as 8 great grandchildren. Peyton, Eli and Kaeden Takach, Claire and Cade Daly, Gwendolyn Corn, and Jake and Wes Bastien will hear many loving stories about their great grandmother.

Barb was unique and will be missed by many. The family will be holding a private Celebration of Life at a later date. Sauls Funeral Home in Bluffton, SC will be handling arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh in Barb's name would be greatly appreciated.