Carol Jean Olson

Carol Jean Olson, 74, of Wausau, passed away October 13, 2023, at Aspirus Wausau Hospital.

Born on November 9, 1948, in Shawano, Wisconsin, Carol was baptized on December 18, 1948, and confirmed on April 15, 1962, a testament to her deep faith.

After graduating from Wausau High School in 1966, she pursued further education, completing accounting classes at North Central Technical School. Her passion for numbers and precision led her to a career as an accountant at Mid-State Contracting LLC, where she dedicated over three decades of her life, becoming an invaluable asset to the company.

On May 24, 1996, Carol embarked on a new chapter, as she joined hands in matrimony with her beloved husband Philip L. Olson. They exchanged their sacred vows at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church, a place that held special significance in Carol's life. Together, they shared countless joyous moments and supported one another through life's challenges.

Carol's warmth and kindness extended far beyond her professional and personal endeavors. She actively contributed to her community, serving as the assistant treasurer at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church and devoting her time as a Sunday School Teacher. Her unwavering commitment to faith and sharing her knowledge brought light to the lives of many.

In her leisure time, Carol found solace in the simple joys of life. Whether it was participating in bowling leagues or escaping to the peace and tranquility of her cottage and camper Up North, she embraced nature's beauty and the companionship of loved ones. She especially liked trail riding on the side-by-sides with her friends and family. Fond memories were created while fishing on the crystal-clear waters and leisurely pontoon rides, filled with laughter and shared stories that formed the fabric of her legacy.

Above all, Carol found immeasurable pride and joy in her children and grandchildren, who served as a constant source of inspiration. She cherished the values instilled in her by her parents, the late Maynard and Ruth Zernicke, and delighted in seeing those same values flourish in her loved ones. Their accomplishments and kind hearts brought her immense happiness and deep gratitude.

Though Carol may no longer be physically with us, her memory will forever be etched in our hearts. We mourn her passing, but we also celebrate the beautiful soul she was and the profound impact she made on those fortunate enough to know her.

Carol is survived by her husband, Philip Olson; daughters, Tammy (Ron) Behnke and Terra (LeRoy) LaFave; step-children, Julie (Scott) Mueller, Laura (Darrin) Dronen, and Philip (Jenny) Olson, Jr.; grandchildren, Matthew Hieronimus, Nicholas, Dakota, and Peyton (Orean) Behnke, Nicole (Adam) and Josh LaFave, Taylor (Mike), Anna, and Grace Mueller, Maria (Kyle), Bryan, and David Dronen; and Elizabeth and Alex Olson; great-grandchildren, Hunter Hieronimus, Morgan and Gavin LaFave, Rowan and Isla; siblings, LeRoy Zernicke, Martin (Joyce) Zernicke, Wallace (Carolyn) Zernicke, Betty (Dennis) Metz, Lyle (Linda) Zernicke; brothers and sisters-in-law, Lori Zernicke, Elgard (Carolyn) Barttelt, Jr., Geneva Olson, Howard (Carmell) Hanson, Sharon (Gayle) Monicken, and Marjorie (John) Arneson; and many nieces and nephews. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Maynard and Ruth Zernicke; sister, Mary Barttelt; brother, Gary Zernicke; son-in-law, Bryan Behnke; nephew, Scott Zernicke; mother and father-in-law, Orvis and Mildred Olson; sisters-in-law, Deanna Zernicke and Ardyce Hanson; and brother-in-law, Dennis Olson

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau. Funeral services for Carol will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023, at 11:00 am at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church, 227150 Harrier, Avenue, Wausau. Rev. Timothy Swanson will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:30 am until the time of service. Carol will be laid to rest in Big Hill Cemetery.