Fern Marion "Lindholm" Olsen

Fern Marion Olson (Lindholm), 93, of Pike Lake, MN passed away peacefully surrounded by family at Solvay Hospice House on August 15, 2025. Fern was born on December 25, 1931, to Joel and Caroline Lindholm. She grew up surrounded by love with her five brothers: Glen, Bruce, Oren, Dick, and Ken, and her sister, Bev. She was a beloved aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Fern graduated from Duluth Central High School and later married the love of her life, Guy Warren Olsen, on October 26, 1955. Together they made their home on Pike Lake, where Fern lived for more than 70 years. They raised two daughters, Cheryl (Robert) Ekstrand and Debra (Frank) Messina, who brought her endless pride and joy.

Fern worked for 28 years as a passenger service agent with North Central, Republic, Northwest, and Delta Airlines. Her career sparked a love for travel, and she enjoyed adventures across the world, including trips to Australia, New Zealand, and her favorite destination-Hawaii.

Though she spent her life on Pike Lake, Fern never learned to swim. Instead, she delighted in peaceful pontoon rides around the lake and tending to her beautiful gardens, especially her roses and peonies.

She was also well known for her baking - always ready with fresh cinnamon rolls, Kit Kat bars, or homemade ice cream for family, friends, or anyone who stopped by. Her potato salad was a family favorite, as were her Thanksgiving turkey and dressing, traditions that brought everyone together. Fern also loved cheering on her hometown teams, faithfully rooting for the Minnesota Twins and Vikings. She endlessly loved her Spanky dogs and her grand-dog Rex.

Of all her roles, Fern most cherished being a grandmother. She adored her only grandchild, Michael Messina, and devoted countless hours to cheering at his soccer games, hosting sleepovers, and sharing in his life. In later years, she extended that same unconditional love to Michael's wife, Jamie, and her three great-grandchildren: Vinny, Cosmo, and Frankie Messina. Her home was always filled with toys, gadgets, and plenty of puffcorn and ice cream to make every visit special.

Fern's life was marked by love, laughter, and generosity. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Fern was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Guy Olsen; parents, Joel and Caroline Lindholm; brothers, Glen, Bruce, Oren, Dick, and Ken Lindholm; and sister, Bev Hakala.

She is lovingly survived by her daughters, Cheryl (Robert) Ekstrand and Debra (Frank) Messina; her cherished grandson, Michael (Jamie) Messina; and her three treasured great-grandchildren, Vinny, Cosmo, and Frankie Messina. She is also remembered fondly by many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at St. Luke's and Solvay Hospice House for the compassionate care shown to Fern.

Celebration of Life to be held at a later date, details pending and will be announced shortly. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Solvay Hospice House or to a charity of your choice. Arrangements are entrusted to Sunrise Funeral Home.