Visitation: Saturday, June 21st, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church (6705 Northway, Greendale Wi) from 1-2pm.

Memorial Service: Saturday, June 21st, at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church (6705 Northway, Greendale Wi) at 2pm.

Karen J. Olson

On January 5, 2025, Karen Olson passed away peacefully in her sleep. She was 94 years old. A lifelong Wisconsin native, Karen was well-loved among the different communities she was part of. Karen had a profound impact on those that she encountered, making them feel like the only person in the room and that anything was possible.

Karen was born on August 5, 1930 in Menominee, Wisconsin to Emma (Medtlie) and Alvin Anderson. Karen met the love of her life, Wayne Glendon Olson at the University of Wisconsin – Stout where she graduated as a Home Economist. Theirs was a love story that spanned many decades and was an example for their three children. They made a home in Greendale, Wisconsin. Karen loved sewing and taught night school sewing for over 20 years. She also worked at Henri’s Salad Dressing, as a Home Economist, developing recipes and tasting dressings for over fifteen years.

Karen was an active member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church, part of the Mary Bible Study, Prayer Chain, historian, chimes and Tuesday School. She was a proud Norwegian and member of the Sons of Norway for many years. Karen was known for her delicious Norwegian cookies. Karen embraced the Tudor Oaks Retirement Community and could be seen at most things that were offered from Zumba Gold to history lectures.

Karen was known by many for her ability to live life fully, love wholeheartedly and how she walked in her faith. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne, son-in-law, James T. Staley and dear granddaughter, Summer Staley. She is survived by her daughters, Jane (Edward) and Kay, as well as her son, Ross (Robin). She is also survived by her seven beloved granddaughters, Lisa, Kara, Erica, Kaitlin, Emma, Addison, Paige and her five great-grandchildren, Bryanna, Alicia, Lilly, Mackenzie and Easton.

Services will be held on Saturday, June 21st at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Greendale, Wisconsin. Visitation 1-2pm, Service at 2pm. Donations may be made in Karen’s memory to St. Luke’s Lutheran church and the American Heart Association as well.