Patricia Marie Olson, born in St. Paul, Minnesota, to Charles and Mary Bilek, navigated her happy early years as an only child surrounded by love. She married Loren Olson in 1952, embarking on a journey that blessed them with four children and a lifetime of adventures, from road trips and camping to dirt bike races.
In 1984, Patricia, embracing independence after 32 years of marriage, ventured into a new phase of her life. She found a fulfilling role at the California Franchise Tax Board, securing a position until her retirement in 1997. That same year, she moved to Emmett, Idaho, to join family where she was baptized and served as a deaconess. 2007 was the year she moved to our community here in Bonners Ferry to be near her daughter.
Patricia’s retirement years were marked by a spirit of adventure and enjoying the simple pleasures of life – from social groups and senior center functions to enjoying her unmatched view of Clifty Mountain, crocheting everything you can think of, and embarking on memorable family trips.
Patricia’s zest for life was obvious, whether she was kayaking at 74, mining for sapphires, or cheering on the grandkids at countless baseball games. At 79, she continued to impact her community as a senior companion, embodying the essence of service and companionship.
Patricia leaves behind four children: Steven, Alan, Teresa, and Holly, eight grandchildren: Lucas, Buddy, Alan, Shanna, Jessy, Emitt, Zackary, and Joseph, and many great-grandchildren to carry on her legacy of strength, love, and spirited adventure.
Her life’s story—a testament to resilience, independence, and the joy of family—continues to inspire those she loved. Patricia Marie Olson is remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose vibrant spirit and sure and simple faith left a mark on all who knew her.