Johnelda "Johnnie" (Christians) Olson

Johnelda “Johnnie” June Olson was born on June 19, 1936, in Sibley, Iowa. She grew up in southern Minnesota near Rushmore and graduated from Worthington High School. In her early years, Johnnie worked as a waitress and later as a linotype operator for the local Rushmore newspaper.

In May of 1955, in Fremont, Nebraska, she was united in marriage to Ronald Olson. Following their marriage, the couple moved to Sioux City, Iowa, where Johnnie was employed by Zenith Corporation. In 1966 or 1967, they relocated to Ogilvie, Minnesota, where she worked for Boatel Yachts building boats. They later moved to Henning, Minnesota, which remained their home for many years.

Johnnie dedicated 25 years of her working life to Lund Boats. Together, Johnnie and Ronald were blessed with five children, tragically losing their son Bruce in November of 1976.

She is survived by her loving husband, Ronald Olson; her children, Chuck (Lynn) Olson, Mick (Elaine) Olson, Dan (Wendy) Olson, and Roxanne Bartels; ten grandchildren; and fourteen great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her son, Bruce Olson; four sisters, Evelyn, Gladys, Pearl, and Tillie; two brothers, Ray Christians and Merle Christians; and her mother, Susie Christians, who passed away in 1966. The surviving spouse is LaDonne Christians.

Johnnie’s greatest joy was her family, and she cherished the time she spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was an avid reader who could finish a book in a day or two, and she lovingly crocheted blankets for nearly everyone in her family. She also found peace in tending her flowers and enjoying quiet moments at home.

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