Eli Olson, 78

Eli Margrethe (Johannessen) Olson, 78, died Tuesday, January 24, 2012 at her home in Alexandria.

Eli was born January 3, 1934 to Magnus and Kristine. She grew up in Stavanger, Norway during the war and stayed in contact with her two best friends through all these years. As a young girl she loved traveling to France and England, riding her bicycle everywhere .

In 1956, she sailed to the United States for a vacation and met Stanley Olson. Eli and Stanley were married in February of 1957 in Chicago. The couple made their home in Chicago, Illinois, where she worked for Zenith for many years. Eli loved her work “on the line” and told many stories. The couple was blessed with two children, John Magnus and Kristine Inger. The family moved to Minnesota in 1972 and bought a resort on Lake Latoka. Over the years, family would visit during the summer and friends became family.

Eli’s life revolved around her children and grandchildren. She had a love for animals and took in cats and dogs from the humane society. Eli enjoyed taking trips, and really loved flying back to Norway, which she did a few times.

She is survived by her daughter, Kristine (Ralle) Kvilhaug of Alexandria; granddaughters, Jackie Kvilhaug, Hailey (Adam) Munsch, Jenny (Jonas) Schwardt, Jill Kvilhaug, Jasmine Olson; and brother, Gunnar (Eli) Johannessen.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Stanley; son, John Olson; parents, Magnus and Kristine Johannessen.

Memorial services were held Saturday, January 28 at Calvary Lutheran Church in Alexandria with the Rev. Mark Astrup officiating. Music was provided by Sandy Buckner. Honorary urn bearers were LeRoy Kvaas, Don Kvaas, Doc Kvaas, Curt Kvaas, Steve Dilly and Ryan Holverson.

Arrangements are with Anderson Funeral Home in Alexandria; www.andersonfuneral.net.

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