Sandra "Sandy" Olson

Sandra, “Sandy” Diane Olson, 78 of Winona, died Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family.

Sandy was born April 16, 1947, in Galesville, WI to Alvin and Virginia (Lowener) Ekern. She graduated from Winona High School in 1965 and on June 4, 1966, married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Olson.

Throughout the years, Sandy worked as the Director for the Downtown Business Association, she assisted at St. Mary’s University Career Placement and was the Program Supervisor for the Senior Companion and Foster Grandparent Programs at Lutheran Social Services. She was very active in the community and was a member of the Winona Area Jaycees. She took pride in working with the Miss Winona Pageant for several years and in 1991 worked directly with Eunice Kennedy Shriver for the Special Olympics. She also coordinated the Downtown Arts and River Festival for a number of years. It was important to Sandy to volunteer, advocate for elder adults and continue to find ways to give back.

Sandy enjoyed boating and camping on the Mississippi River with their friends. Her and Bob took many road trips and especially loved their adventures in Arizona. She loved looking out in her backyard at the beautiful flowers and water features that attracted a variety of birds, most notably the hummingbirds.

Most of all, Sandy treasured spending time with her husband and family. She loved hearing stories about the grandchildren and great-grandchildren and it gave her immense pleasure sharing her love of cooking with them all. It put a smile on her face to see everyone enjoy the delicious meals she prepared with love.

She is survived by her husband Bob; sister, Carol (Bill) Geiger; children, Doug (Angie) Olson and Kelly (Michael) Schroeder; grandchildren, Sarah (Connor) Verstegen, Tawni Kramer, Ryan (Mardi) Olson, Sadie (Matt) Heinz, Tanner Gray and Jaden Kramer; great-grandchildren, Levi, Landon and Spencer; and niece Erika (Brandon) Yahn.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A memorial service for Sandy will be held on Saturday, November 1st . The visitation will be 1-3pm and a service beginning at 3pm at the Hoff Celebration of Life Center – Goodview. A luncheon will immediately follow.

Hoff Celebration of Life Center – Goodview is assisting the family with arrangements. www.hofffuneral.com.