It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of their dear loved one, Marilyn Viola “Jo” Olson, on Wednesday. March 13 at the Rainy River Health Centre in Rainy River, Ont.
Jo was born March 26, 1945 in Simcoe, Ont. to Harlen and Ethel Sipes.
She was united in marriage to John Robert Olson on July 23, 1966. They lived in Atikokan, Ont. until 1972, then moved to Kamloops, B.C. until retirement.
Jo and Bob relocated back to Bergland, Ont. to enjoy Lake of the Woods, nature, and fishing.
Jo was very young at heart; her adventurous spirit led her to fill her life with creativity and fun. She loved the outdoors and consequently many a family vacation was spent camping.
She served many years in her church with the youth, especially the young women. She also enjoyed many service years as a Cub Scout leader and Relief Society president.
Jo incorporated her love of the outdoors through photography, painting, flower arranging, and landscaping. She acquired a horticultural certificate and after graduation, she owned and operated her business, Prestige Horticulture.
She loved her family and her grandchildren very much; they were the light of her life. She is most remembered by her infectious laugh, warm and giving heart, and creativity.
Jo is survived by her husband, Bob; her children, Rebecca (Larry) Murray of Magrath, Alta., Greg (Ramona) Olson of Vernon, B.C., Brad (Angela) Olson of Kamloops, B.C., and Derek (Tanya) Olson of Kamloops, B.C.; her mother, Ethel McAdams of Rainy River, Ont.; and sisters, Carol (Bob) Jones of Fort McLeod, Alta., Linda (Dennis) Watson of Sleeman, Ont., and Nancy (Glen) Cosby of Fort Erie, Ont.
Lovingly remembered by her grandchildren and one-great grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. Jo also will be missed by numerous loving in-laws.
Jo was predeceased by her father, Harlen Sipes; brothers, Michael and Lenny; and sister, Louise (Toots).
Funeral services will be held Thursday, March 21, 2013 at 1 p.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day-Saints chapel in Bergland, with President Don Larsen officiating.
The pallbearers will be Greg Olson, Brad Olson, Derek Olson, Larry Murray, CJ Murray, and Haden Olson.
Interment will take place at a later date in Bergland Cemetery.
An evening gathering for family and friends will take place Wednesday, March 20, 2013 from 7-9 p.m. at the Olson residence, 21 Moose Bay Rd. in Bergland.
In memoriam donations may be made to Rainy River Locum House c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.northridgefuneralhome.com