Shirley Ann Olson

Shirley Ann (Rach) Olson, age 87 of Sebeka, MN passed away peacefully on Friday, August 23, 2024 surrounded by her family.

Shirley was born to Dorothy and Elmer Rach on February 21, 1937 in Germania Township in Todd County MN. She was the oldest of three children with one brother Danny and one sister Jan. She attended Sebeka High School where she graduated with the class of 1955 and began working at the Sebeka drug store. In August of 1956 she married Sheldon Olson and shortly after that they began farming west of Sebeka. They then went on to have seven children, four sons and three daughters. She was a beloved grandmother and adored her 23 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren. She enjoyed attending school and sporting events to watch her grandchildren and had a special way of making all of them feel important. She took pride every year in getting every grandchild (plus in-laws) and great grandchildren a Christmas gift, how she did it, we do not know. She loved birthday parties, weddings, and other family celebrations and was always there to support her loved ones. Whenever you stopped to visit, there were always treats or baked goods and grandma wouldn’t hesitate to ask if you were hungry and whip something up. She always had a tremendous faith in God and truly lived her life with a servant heart.

Some may not think of milking cows as a hobby, but she milked cows until she was 82 years old and enjoyed being in the barn with her sons. She was always an avid gardener and canned countless quarts of vegetables, fruits and salsa. When she no longer could continue helping out in the barn, she became an avid reader and embroiderer. She loved to create projects from dish towels, pillows, and framed pieces to gift to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. They will no doubt forever be cherished by all.

Shirley is survived by her husband of 68 years, Sheldon Olson of Sebeka, MN; Children - Brad (Anni) Olson of Wadena, MN; Shelly (Mike) Hanson of Brooklyn Park, MN; Kelly (Gordy) Huttunen of Wadena, MN; Patty (Mike) Strayer of Ottertail, MN; Mike (Christine) Olson of Sebeka, MN; Chris (Tracey) Olson of Sebeka, MN; Chad (Sarah) Olson of Sebeka, MN; 23 grandchildren, and 42 great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother, sister and one granddaughter.

Visitation will be held at the Wevley Funeral Home in Sebeka on Wednesday August 28 from 5-7:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Friends in Christ Community Church in Sebeka on Thursday August 29 at 11:00 a.m. , luncheon at the church following interment.