Ronelle Leone Olien

Ronelle Olien, 90, passed away peacefully on January 5, 2026, at her assisted living community in Westminster, Colorado. Her daughter Allison and her beloved dog, Ginger, were by her side, grateful to have arrived in time to sit with her and say goodbye. The suspected lung cancer progressed quickly, and in her final days she often spoke of "going home"—a gentle sign that she was ready. While her family feels deep sadness, they also take comfort in knowing she is now at peace.

Ronelle was born on August 14, 1935, in Benton Harbor, Michigan, the only child of Leona Fort and Arthur Fort. From the moment she could talk, she could sing—and she never stopped. Music became a defining thread throughout her life. She sang in the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church choir, later in the Westview Church choir, and was a sought-after soloist for weddings and memorials. Whether the occasion was joyful or sorrowful, she delivered each performance with grace, poise, and a voice that brought comfort to many.

After graduating from high school, Ronelle moved to Chicago for her education and completed her nursing training at the Augustana Hospital School of Nursing in September 1956. She married Neil Olien on March 15, 1958, beginning a partnership filled with love, adventure, and shared purpose. Ronelle worked first as a surgical nurse and later as a visiting nurse as she and Neil made their home in Chicago; Rapid City, South Dakota; San Jose, California; and finally Boulder, Colorado.

In her 40s, Ronelle discovered a love of swimming at the South Boulder Recreation Center, ultimately logging more than 1,500 miles. She was also an exceptional baker—her cinnamon bread tea rings were legendary during the holidays—and she delighted in preparing gourmet meals and hosting dinner parties. For many years, she opened her home on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas to friends who didn't have family nearby, creating a warm and welcoming table for all.

Ronelle and Neil shared a deep love of travel, especially after Neil's retirement. Together they explored the country in their RV, spending cherished time in the scenic landscapes of Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico. She also enjoyed sewing, doting on her dogs, and staying deeply connected to her church community.

Neil passed away on April 30, 2018, after 60 years of marriage. Ronelle is survived by her two children, Howard Olien and Allison Olien.

Ronelle will be remembered for her kindness, her unwavering faith, her devotion to music, and her wonderful sense of humor. She believed there was always something to laugh about in every situation, and her joyful spirit made her a delight to be around.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Westview Church, 6710 Arapahoe Ave, Boulder, CO 80303.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Westview Church (https://www.westviewboulder.org) or the American Cancer Society (https://donate.cancer.org).