Service Details
In lieu of a formal funeral service, it was Harriet’s wish that you have a cocktail in her honor and “Skol” to your cherished memories of her.
Harriet K. Olson passed away December 6, 2020. She was born to Bodil (nee: Jensen) and Einer Nielsen on January 26, 1926.She graduated from Park High School in 1944 and still could sing the school song. She was a graduate of Marvel Beauty School in Milwaukee.
Harriet owned and managed Vavyette Beauty Shop at 710 Grand Ave. in Racine which was previously owned by her sister Vivian.
She married then Capt. Harvey Olson on May 17, 1952. He had just returned from Korea. They moved to Bowling Green, OH where he taught ROTC at the university. Two years later they moved back to Racine and then relocated to Kenosha.
She enjoyed her Florida Winter home for many years as did her family. She enjoyed playing bridge, cribbage, and many card games that she rarely lost, crossword puzzles, and had many hobbies including crocheting scarves, placemats, and hangers to give away to her loved ones. Her spare bedroom bed was always full of beautiful gifts offered to anyone who came over. The “party light” was always on for happy hour and anyone was welcome to a brandy Manhattan.
She was a lifetime member of Son’s of Norway of which Harvey was President for many years. She was 100% Danish and remained ever faithful to her roots. She had a great sense of humor, loved everyone and was always the life of the party.
She is survived by her children, Susan Olson of Kenosha, Sandra (Mike) Britt of Florida, and Steven (Joyce) Olson of Georgia; her grandchildren, Shawn Kitzmiller and Steven Olson of Kenosha, Anna and Kelly Olson of Georgia; her great grandson Manny Harvey Olson of Kenosha; her special nephew Pat (Sue) Garner of Racine, and her cousin JoAnn Denham of Texas.
Along with her parents and husband Lt. Col. Harvey Olson, she was preceded in death by her sisters Vivian (John) Garner and Mary Jane (Harry) Priaulx; her in laws, William (Helen) Olson, Helen (Frannie) Toutant, Olaf (Irene) Olson, and Alice Grimmer; a special nephew Mike Garner; special cousins Harry Nielsen and Clayton Nielsen; Claytons three sons, Bruce, Jim, and Dale, and Hazel (Bob) Rounds; amny other relaives and friends.
At her request she wished to make her honorary pall bearers these special people and nieces and nephews, Mike (Sandra) Britt, Patrick (Sue) Garner, Bill (Mary Ann) Toutant, Terry (Laurie) Toutant, Judy Nielsen, Gregg (Rondi) Olson, Cheryl (John) Bailey, Wendy Kilberg, and MaryChris (Jim) Winn.
Ejner J. Lie says
Kom godt hjem nu !!!
Shawn Kitzmiller says
We celebrate a life truly lived to the fullest every day. You made us promise not to be sad for you, saying of course we will be sad and miss you, but we must be happy for you. You’re reunited with Harv and all the greats alike no doubt having one heck of a party up there!
Love you more, Nani!
Michael J .Britt says
Harriett, The Mother of my wife, love you so much and you will be in our thoughts forever.
Jamie Garner says
I will be partaking in a Manhattan next time I can in your honor! Love you, Aunt Harriet!
Conniann DiVincenzo-Kerns says
🙏🙏🙏for the entire family.
May your mom rest in peace, Sandy.
Know that you and Mike will be in my prayers throughout the holiday season.
Miss both of you.
Connieann
Mark s. nielsen says
To my best and most loved cousin, rest peacefully in gods arms. Love mark nielsen and family.
Sandi Nielsen says
Sorry to hear about Harriet, she was always a lot of fun to talk with at parties. My deepest condolences.
Judy Nielsen says
Blessed to have such a great lady as an aunt. So special
Lisa and Davis Driver says
We are so sorry for your loss. You’re in our thoughts and prayers.