Obituary of Sharron Lee Olsen

Sharron Lee Olsen, 79, of 8040 Woodhill Drive, Rockford, MN, formerly of New Richmond, WI, died Sunday evening, December 13, 2020 at Bridgewater at Hanover care facility. Sharron died surrounded by loved ones and at the time of her death, her daughter was holding her hand.

Sharron was born on December 27, 1940 in Des Moines, Iowa, the daughter of Donald and Margaret (Gearhart) Smiley. She was a graduate of Beloit Catholic High School. She married her high school sweetheart, Richard Olsen, Sr. on June 24, 1961 in Beloit, WI. He predeceased her on February 23, 2015.

Sharron and her husband Dick moved to New Richmond, WI in November of 1975, where they were longtime residents and raised three children, Richard Olsen, Jr., Cindy and Jennifer, before relocating again to Rockford, Minnesota to live with Jennifer’s family in October of 2010.

Sharron was the “heart” of her family. Her life revolved around being a dedicated daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. She was an avid supporter of every endeavor her loved ones pursued. She was an engaged parent and grandparent -- always deeply involved in supporting and dedicating her time, talents and efforts to the many various groups/activities in which her children and grandchildren participated. She was a loyal supporter of the Stagedoor Players theatre troupe in New Richmond, WI and was often found sewing costumes, creating centerpieces, window displays and generally helping with whatever was needed. Sharron was a steadfast supporter of the NRHS music programs. She was a fixture in hockey arenas in WI and MN cheering on her grandsons. Sharron enjoyed late night “casino runs” with Dick to casinos throughout MN and WI. She also enjoyed spending time with loved ones at the family cabin in Wisconsin. Sharron was a loving and devoted family woman who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Sharron is survived by her brother Donald Smiley, Jr. of Los Angeles, CA; her daughter Cindy and her family; her daughter Jennifer (William) Hance of Rockford, MN; Grandchildren Nicholas Olsen, Michael (Caity) Olsen, Emilie Hance, Molly (Scott) Richter, Andrew Hance; and Great-Grandchildren Auggie Olsen and soon-to-be-born “Baby Olsen”. She is further survived by nieces and nephews, other relatives and friends.

Sharron is predeceased by her parents Donald and Margaret Smiley, her husband Richard Olsen, Sr., and her son Richard Olsen, Jr.

Due to the current restrictions in the State of MN related to COVID-19, an in-person memorial service is not possible at this time. A virtual memorial service to celebrate Sharron’s life will be held on Sunday, December 27, 2020 at 2:00 P.M. CST. Invitations will be sent to family and friends with details.