Linda Marlene Olson

1939 - 2026

Linda Marlene (Boals) Olson, 86, of Ludington, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Linda was born on November 22, 1939, in Ludington, to the late Marlen Boals and Lavona (Hof) Granger. She graduated from Ludington High School in 1957. On August 22, 1958, she married Willard Olson. Together they shared over 30 memorable years together until his passing in 1991. For 25 years, she was employed by Ludington Area Schools.

Linda was a woman of deep wisdom and quiet strength, whose kindness touched everyone she met. She had a playful spirit and a quick, sharp remark, always ready-never meant to wound, but always delivered with love and a sparkle in her eye and an eyebrow raised. Her words could make you laugh, think, and feel cared for all at once.

Linda was a woman of many interests and hobbies. She was an avid traveler and an enthusiastic quilter. Her love for swimming, playing cards, and Mahjong provided her with many joyful moments shared with family and friends. A fan of Michigan State basketball, she hardly missed a game, showing her support with the same passion she devoted to gardening and reading. Linda also had a love for horses and horse racing. Above all, spending time with her grandchildren was the highlight of her later years, sharing with them her interests and imparting life's valuable lessons.

Linda is survived by her children, Scott (Sharon) Olson, Cindy (Axel) Blanco, and JoLynn Olson-Gilliam; grandchildren, Marlin (Heather) Olson, Mandy (Mike) Lichterman, Marlene (Steve) Burns, Maxwell Gilliam, Samuel Gilliam, Chad Stevens, Christopher Stevens; and several great grandchildren.

Linda was preceded in death by her husband, Willard Olson; parents, Marlen Boals and Lavona Granger; brothers, Fred Boals, and Roger Boals.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11am at Lakeview Cemetery in Ludington with Pastor Marlin Olson officiating, all friends and family are welcome to attend. A luncheon will be held at Apostolic Christian Tabernacle Church in Ludington immediately following.

Memorial contributions may be directed to The Ludington Senior Center.

The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to those who cared for Linda, Dr. Amanda Overmyer, and Elara Caring Hospice and Home Care. Their compassionate care given to her did not go unnoticed.

Arrangements were entrusted to Grace Funeral Home and Cremation Services, www.GraceCremations.com.