Irene Olson

Irene M. Olson, 89, of Fargo, died peacefully on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 surrounded by her family in Villa Maria. She was born on January 29, 1929, to William and Annie Barker in Perth, ND. She grew up in the area and graduated from Rocklake High School in 1947. Following graduation Irene moved to Rolla, ND where she lived and worked at the Red Owl Store. That is also where she met Neil Smith. They were married on October 19, 1947 and had 3 children. Later, they moved to Rocklake, ND before settling in Fargo. On February 14, 1975 Irene married the love of her life, Orville Olson in Watertown, SD. The couple made their home in Fargo. She loved traveling during Orville's trucking years cross country with him and their honeymoon never ended. Irene was a member of American Legion Women’s Auxiliary. She was also involved in the Ladies Bible Study at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Irene’s most important relationships were with her family and God. She is survived by her husband of 43 years, Orville; children, Linda (Curt) Blumhardt, Doug Smith, Gordon Smith, Michael (Lori) Olson; brothers, Vernon and Melvin Barker; and sister, Marlene Spack; 7 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, 4 great great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Krail and Herb Barker; and her great-granddaughter, Sophia Marie. There will be a visitation from 5-7:00 PM with a prayer service following at 7:00 PM on Monday, July 23, 2018 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Fargo. The funeral service will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 24, 2018 at Immanuel Lutheran Church with a visitation one hour prior. Memorials preferred to Hospice of the Red River Valley.