Winona Kaydelle Olson, 88, passed away peacefully at her home in Grantsburg, Wisconsin, on June 11, 2025. She was born on Dec. 5, 1936, to Leonard and Sylvia Bangtson in Willmar, Minnesota.
Winona graduated from high school in Willmar in 1955 and attended Ancker Hospital School of Nursing, earning her registered nurse degree in 1958. She dedicated many years to nursing, retiring at the age of 72. She met the love of her life, Curtis D. Olson, in Grantsburg, and they married on Oct. 18, 1958. Together they raised three children, Ed, Robyn and Mark. They made their home in Hudson, Wisconsin, and later retired in Grantsburg, spending 20 wonderful winters in Apache Junction, Arizona.
Winona and Curtis traveled throughout the USA, embracing hobbies such as sewing, baking and fishing. A proud member of Eastern Star for most of her life, Winona was highly involved and cherished her roles within the organization, serving as Worthy Grand Patron in 2013, a title she held with great pride. She was also a devoted grandmother, joyfully attending many of her grandchildren’s events. A passionate football fan, she was an enthusiastic supporter of the Minnesota Vikings.
Winona is survived by her children, Edwin (Sandy) Olson of Casco, Wisconsin, Robyn (Richard) Belanger of Siren, Wisconsin, and Mark (Jodi) Olson of New Richmond, Wisconsin. She also leaves behind beloved grandchildren, Nicole Christinson (JB), Katie Olson, Devan Christensen, Kara Kloss (Taylor) and Megan Olson; as well as four great-grandchildren, Caleb, Luke, Kaiden and Brooks; her sister-in-law, Marylou (Jerry) Baillargeon; along with numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and her Eastern Star family, who will also cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Curtis D. Olson; her parents, Leonard and Sylvia Bangston; her brother, Charles Bangston, and his wife, Ellen; her mother-in-law, Alvina Culbertson; her father-in-law, David Olson; brothers-in-law, Harold Olson and LaVerne (Pete) Olson; and sisters-in-law, LaVonne Seeman and Betty Jane Jack.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Kelly Oster and Charlie King for the loving care they provided to Winona.
Visitation will take place on Sunday, June 22, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Grantsburg, Wisconsin. A funeral service will follow at 3:00 p.m., with a graveside service immediately afterward at Riverside Cemetery in Grantsburg. Online condolences may be expressed at swedberg-taylor.com
Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 813 Robert St. S Grantsburg WI 548401, 715-866-7131
