F. Lorraine Olson

Lorraine (Jelen) Olson, age 94, of La Crosse, WI, passed away on January 7, 2026, at Eagle Crest South. Lorraine was born in Helena, Montana, on January 27, 1931, to Edward and Genevieve (Ender) Jelen. She was also raised by her aunt, Geneva, and uncle, Frank Ender, while growing up in Westby, Wisconsin.

In her younger years, Lorraine completed her high school education at Westby High School in 1949, where she participated in a range of activities, including Glee Club, Prep Club, Library Club, Class Play, Choir, and Band. She was crowned Homecoming Queen at Westby High School and later earned the title of Tobacco Queen during the 1951 Westby Harvest Festival. To further her education, she attended the La Crosse Business School and began her secretarial career at Trane Company in La Crosse.

Lorraine met the love of her life, Richard Olson, on a blind date at the La Crosse Oktoberfest. They were married on April 04, 1964, at the Zumbrota Lutheran Church in Rochester, MN. They had many wonderful years together until Richard's passing in 2001.

Lorraine cherished many aspects of her life, with her family and friends holding the utmost significance. She had a deep appreciation for Johnny Mathis's music and was fortunate enough to have met him in person. Traveling brought her great joy, especially to her favorite destinations, such as Hawaii, New York, and Disney World. Monthly card club lunches with her friends were a highlight for her, as were the puzzle gatherings at Eagle Crest. Holidays filled her heart with warmth and love, especially Christmas, the Fourth of July, and all birthday celebrations.

Lorraine's love for her family was immense, and she truly excelled in her roles as a wife, mother, mother-in-law, and nana. Her faith was also very important to her as a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.

She is survived by her daughter, Penni (Barry) Miller; grandchildren, Adam (Alicia) Miller and Lucas Miller; brother, Gary (Karen) Jelen; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard, brothers Richard (Bonnie) Jelen and Paul (Gaile) Jelen, and sisters Shirley (Joe) Jiacoma, Jackie (Clayton) Berg, Patricia (Jerry) Stout, and Betty Miller. Additionally, Lorraine was preceded by her brother-in-law, Robert (Benita) Olson.

In accordance with Lorraine's wishes, a private family service has already taken place, with Pastor Harald Bringsjord officiating. Lorraine was laid to rest at Mormon Coulee Memorial Park Cemetery in La Crosse. The family expresses heartfelt gratitude for the caring support provided by the staff at Eagle Crest South Memory Care and Agrace Hospice.