Jean Carol Olson, age 85, of Merrill, passed away on Tuesday, March 19, 2024, at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital, with her family by her side. She was born on December 17, 1938 to the late Charles and Margaret (Zuleger) Huckbody in Wausau, WI. Jean attended and graduated from Washington Park High School in Racine, before continuing her education at UW-Milwaukee for business, and UW-Madison for education. She met the love of her life, Richard Olson, and the two were united in marriage on July 9, 1966 in Racine, WI, a union lasting 58 years. He survives.
Jean taught grade school in her younger years, then became a substitute teacher while raising her two boys. She was also a secretary for her husband’s law firm for many years. She kept herself busy owning the Weston Manor Mobile Home Park for many years. Jean was very active in bridge groups and her sorority, as well as playing Uno with her grandkids, which she very much looked forward to! She had also volunteered at the Merrill Hospital. She enjoyed flowers, gardening, reading good books and cooking for family and friends. Jean is remembered as a sweet, caring, and selfless woman who was very thoughtful and giving. She was an organ donor and gave the precious gift of life as her final act of giving. Jean will be missed dearly but will remain in the hearts and minds of her loved ones forever.
Jean leaves behind her husband: Richard “Dick” Olson of Merrill, WI, sons: David (Veronica Flood) Olson of Menomonee Falls, WI and James (Kelsey Novotny) Olson of Madison, WI, grandchildren: Matthew, Eric and Caitlin Olson and her pet dog, Gunnar. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Per family request, no formal services will be held for Jean.
Family requests that memorials in Jean’s name be made to St. Vincent De Paul in Merrill.
Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences are encouraged and may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.