Etta Mae Hobbick (née Olson), age 83, of Elk River, MN and formerly of Milaca, MN and Colorado Springs, CO, passed away peacefully into eternal life with her Savior on February 17, 2026. She was born on February 9, 1943, in Colfax, Wisconsin, the youngest of six daughters born to Martin and Esther Olson.

Etta grew up in Colfax, graduating from Colfax High School in 1961. As a young woman, she survived the devastating tornado of 1958, an experience that reflected the resilience and strength she carried throughout her life.

Etta was a woman whose life was firmly rooted in her personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Her love for the Lord guided her life, her service to others, and her deep love for her family. Family was at the heart of everything she did. She treasured her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and her home was always a welcoming place filled with love, laughter, and wonderful food.

A proud small business owner, Etta was passionate about serving her community. She owned and operated Bits & Pizzas and the Pop Shoppe in Elk River, and later Hobnetti’s Pizza in Milaca. She took great pride in serving excellent food and was especially devoted to mentoring and developing the young people who worked for her, many of whom she considered extended family.

Etta’s commitment to her community extended beyond her businesses. She served on the Milaca City Council and on the Board of Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services, dedicating her time to strengthening opportunities for others.

After retiring from the restaurant business, Etta relocated to Colorado Springs, where she embraced the adventure and the beauty of the mountains. Her heart for service remained strong and she continued serving others through her work with Compassion International, faithfully supporting its mission of “Releasing Children from Poverty in Jesus’ Name,” and finding great purpose in contributing to a ministry that reflected her deep and abiding faith.

She had a creative spirit and loved to make beautiful things. Etta had a special talent for floral arranging and decorating, enjoyed acrylic paint pouring, and found joy in cooking and baking. She delighted in sharing her creations with family, friends, and neighbors.

Etta is survived by her children: MaryBeth (Jim) Schmitt of Elk River, MN; Karen Christensen of Milaca, MN; and Ken (Theresa) Hobbick of Parker, CO. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Andy (Lonna) Christensen, Stephanie Christensen, Ken (Susan) Schmitt, Kelly Hobbick, and Sarah Hobbick; and her great-grandchildren: Emma, Korah, Waverly, Madison, Mason, and McKenna. She is further survived by her sister, Eunice Maier, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Esther Olson; her sisters Lillian (Lloyd) LeMense, Rose (Bob) Harley, Nancy (Romaine) Lemke, and Marlene (Ray) Johnson; her brother-in-law, Cal Maier, and her son-in-law, Ken Christensen.

Etta will be remembered for her steadfast faith, strength, generosity, creativity, and unwavering love for her family and community. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.

A memorial service will be held this spring, with details to be announced.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed.” — Proverbs 31:28