Mary Oleson

Mary K. Oleson, 76, of Aberdeen, SD, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on April 5, 2024, at 12:45 a.m., leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.

A Memorial Service to celebrate Mary’s life will be held on May 4, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, with Pastor Heidi Youngquist officiating.

Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.

Burial will be at Sunset Memorial Gardens Cemetery at a later date.

Schriver’s Memorial Mortuary and Crematory, 414 5th Avenue NW, Aberdeen, is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook at www.schriversmemorial.com. Services will be live-streamed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SchriversMemorial.

Born to Richard and Bernadine (Langdale) Baltzer on June 17, 1947, in Beatrice, Nebraska, Mary’s journey was defined by her deep connections with family and her passion for nature.

As a child, Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of camping and fishing alongside her parents and her brother Dickie. These early experiences instilled in her a lifelong love for the outdoors, which she carried with her throughout her life.

Mary’s path led her to Madison, Wisconsin, where she graduated from high school before embarking on a journey with her husband, Lon, and their son, Michael, across the Midwest. From state to state, they wandered until finally settling in South Dakota in 1983, a place she proudly called home.

Throughout her career, Mary contributed her skills and passion to various organizations, such as Northern State College, the South Dakota Education Association, and Target. She later retired in May 2010.

In South Dakota, Mary found solace in the serene beauty of nature, continuing her passion for fishing and camping. Her fondness for small dogs also filled her days with warmth, joy, and unconditional companionship.

However, Mary’s greatest joy came from her role as a grandmother. Her grandchildren brought immeasurable happiness into her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She was especially delighted to become a great-grandmother to Baylor Kain Oleson, whose presence brought her immense joy.

Mary is survived by her son Michael (Lindsay) Oleson; grandchildren: Kristopher (Sydney), Michaela (Colin), Alec (Caitlyn), Claire, and Andrea; and great-grandson Baylor.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Bernadine; brother, Dickie; and husband, Lon.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Aspire in Aberdeen as a tribute to her brother Dickie, reflecting Mary’s spirit of generosity and compassion.

Mary K. Oleson will be remembered fondly for her unwavering love for her family, her zest for life, and her enduring kindness towards others. Though she may no longer walk with us, her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

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