Mrs. Shirley M. (Christensen) Olson

April 23, 1926 - October 20, 2015

Shirley M. Olson went home to our Lord on October 20, 2015 in Grand Island, Nebraska. She was born near Centerville, South Dakota on April 23, 1926 to Viggo and Marie (Knudsen) Christensen. Shirley graduated from Centerville High School and attended Springfield Teachers College in Springfield, South Dakota. She began her teaching career in a one-room country school. She always taught school at the elementary level and enjoyed it very much. She married Floyd A. Olson on February 22, 1947 in Turner County, South Dakota. They began married life with Floyd farming and Shirley teaching in country school. They eventually quit the farm life and moved to town with Shirley teaching and Floyd driving for ALPO. Floyd preceded her in death on February 8, 2010. Shirley enjoyed crafts, crossword puzzles, Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, playing cards of any kind, and a really good joke. She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, parents, sister and brother. She will be greatly missed by her son, Chris (Becky Beers) Olson of Friend, Nebraska; daughters, Cathi (Pete) Markisich of Rock Springs, Wyoming, Mary (Terry) Foxworthy of Bassett, Nebraska, Jill (Chet) Sharkey of Friend, Nebraska; sister-in-law, Marge Gors of Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Eight grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, one great-great-granddaughter and several nieces and nephews. Memorial Services were held at the St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bassett, Nebraska with Pastor John Brink officiating over the service. Music was provided by Faye Smith, playing selections of "How Great Thou Art" and "One Day At A Time." Honorary bearers were, all of Shirley's family and friends. Inurnment followed at the Bassett Memorial Cemetery under the direction of Hoch Funeral Home of Bassett.