Leonne Olson

Leonne Margaret Olson was born on July 21, 1936, in Crookston, Minnesota the daughter of Clifford and Lorraine (Jobe) Gillespie. The family later moved to the Alexandria area and Leonne graduated from Alexandria High School in 1954. On June 12, 1954, Leonne was united in marriage to Curtis Olson. After their marriage the couple moved to Brandon where they rented an apartment above the Creamery and a couple years later they bought Curt?s family farm where they raised their six children. Besides farming Leonne and Curt owned and operated a restaurant in Brandon. In later years Leonne also worked at Chippewa Nursery and JC Penny?s. Mrs. Olson loved her garden, flowers and watching the birds. She was also known for her wonderful canned pickles and made excellent jam. She enjoyed time camping and loved to be at the lake. Leonne died on Friday, September 7, 2012. She is survived by her husband, Curtis; six children: Patricia (Jon) Anderson of Evansville, Larry (Sharon) Olson of Florence, SC, Cheryl (Bob) Conn of Alexandria, Ronald (Judy) Olson of Menifee, CA, Donald (Michelle) Olson of Brandon, Becky (Darrin) Smith of Erdahl, MN; fifteen grandchildren, twelve great grandchildren; sister, Ruth (Edward) Hocke of Windom, MN; brothers: Ezra Dale (Juanita) Gillespie of Alexandria, Richard (JoAnn) Gillespie of Washington. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister, Norma Jean; brother, Gerald. Memorial service was held on Wednesday, September 12, 2012, 11:00 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Brandon with Rev. Dennis Preston officiating. Burial was at St. Petri Cemetery in Brandon. Arrangements were with the Anderson Funeral Home. www.andersonfuneral.net