Betty JoAnn Olson, age 74, of rural Ettrick, passed away peacefully in her home on Friday, January 11, 2013.

Betty was born on July 6, 1938 to Enoch and Millie (Johnson) Thompson in Melrose. She was confirmed at the South Beaver Creek Lutheran Church in rural Ettrick and has been a proud lifetime member. Betty graduated from the Melrose High School in 1956. She was united in marriage on August 22, 1964 to LeRoy Olson. LeRoy preceded Betty in death on September 13, 2008.

Betty worked at the local factory in Ettrick for 42 years and also farmed with her husband. She was previously a member of the Ettrick American Legion Auxilary Post #354.

Betty enjoyed spending time on the farm, attending horse pulls and riding around with her husband, LeRoy. She was especially fond of her dogs, Diggy and Laddie, who brought great joy to her life. With her granddaughters, Betty enjoyed speaking and teaching Norwegian. She enjoyed adventures with her daughter and son-in-law. Her other favorite past times included polka dancing, singing in church and listening to Pastor Ashland's services, as well as going on bus trips to the casino. Betty loved to visit with her family and friends, where her wonderful sense of humor brought cheer to the people around her.
Betty is survived by her daughter, Jonnie (LaVern) Berg of Ettrick; two granddaughters, Dana (Joel) Halderson of Galesville and Jenna (Nate) Krall of Marshfield; a great-granddaughter, Jonnalyn Halderson; two sisters-in-law, Betty (Robert) Lissack of Milwaukee and Barbara (Harry) Stai of Menomonie; a special niece, Julie Smith of Albert Lea, MN and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, Betty was preceded in death by three sisters, Evelyn Gusk, Viola Brenegan and Avonell Norman; a brother, Wayne Thompson.

Betty will be truly missed and her beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. in the south Beaver Creek Lutheran Church with burial in the church cemetery both in rural Ettrick. Pastor John Ashland will officiate.
Visitation will be held on Monday, January 14, 2013 from 4-7 p.m. in the Jack Funeral Home in Blair and also one hour prior to the services at the church on Tuesday.