Joan Marilyn Olson

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

July 24, 1930 - Dec. 12, 2008

CAMARILLO, Calif. -- Joan Marilyn Olson, age 78, died peacefully of lung cancer in the company of her children on Friday, Dec. 12, 2008, at her home in Camarillo, Calif.

Joan was born on July 24, 1930, in Barnston, Neb., to Blaine Fletcher and Mary (Stromer) Fletcher Jarl. She grew up in McCook and was a proud member of the McCook High School Class of 1948.

She enjoyed her last trip home in September when she attended her 60th high school reunion.

After high school she received radiology technology training and worked as a radiology technician at St. Catherine's hospital. Her interest in all things medical continued throughout her life.

During her high school years the big bands of Benny Goodman and Glen Miller came through McCook and Joan discovered another lifelong passion, dancing.

Joan's greatest source of pride was her children, raising them after her divorce with little more than a mother's force of will and enduring love. They are, Teresa, Merrilee, Diana and Doug.

She is also survived by her grandchildren Renee, Mishael, Kristofer, Jason, Lance and Gavin; her great-grandchildren Cienna, John, and Brian; and her beloved cat, Kitsy.

At her request her ashes will be scattered upon the great ocean that she loved.

Donations in her memory may be made to The Humane Society of Ventura County 402 Bryant Street, Ojai, CA 93023 or to Livingston Memorial Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice, 1996 Eastman Avenue, Suite 101, Ventura, CA 93003.

Notes of condolence may be sent to: Family, Joan Olson, 69 LaSuen Ave., Camarillo, CA 93010.