Lori Jean "Oreo" Olson

We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Miss Lori Jean "Oreo" Olson, 54, of Ottawa, Illinois, who was returned to her Heavenly Father on September 10, 2025, in her hometown of Ottawa, Illinois.


Lori, named after her maternal Aunt Jean Zeilman, was born on December 4, 1970, in Ottawa, the beloved daughter of Sandra Finnegan and the late John Finnegan. She grew up surrounded by a loving family and many beloved pets. She attended Grand Ridge Grade School before graduating from Ottawa High School in 1989, where she was involved in choir and excelled in many team sports.


During her life, she lived in Ottawa, Hawaii for 14 years, and Chicago for 3 years, before returning to Ottawa. Lori had a long career in administrative work, marketing, and sales, and most recently, she was employed by HR Imaging in Ottawa. Her love for people was reflected in her ability to connect with others-qualities that gifted her many friends throughout her life.


She had a deep love for animals of all kinds and found joy in music, travel, and team sports. A devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Cubs, she cheered on her teams with unwavering enthusiasm. She also enjoyed watching crime shows and historical dramas, often immersing herself in stories that sparked her curiosity about the world.


Her faith was an important part of her life; baptized as a baby, Lori carried a strong spiritual foundation throughout her journey. Despite facing numerous health challenges over the years, she met each one with grace.


Lori was a cherished daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her mother Sandra Finnegan; siblings Kevin (Veronica) Finnegan, Kelly Finnegan, Kyle Finnegan, Krista (Bob) Brown, Tracy (Chris) Behrens; and her pride and joy-her nephew Ryan Michael Behrens. She was preceded in death by her father John Finnegan; maternal grandparents Arthur and Myrtle Vincent; paternal grandparents Oscar and Opal Olson; and Travis Olson.


Those who knew Lori will remember her beautiful brown eyes that sparkled and her kind heart. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her.


A visitation will be held on September 19, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at First Presbyterian Church, 114 E Jefferson Street in Ottawa, with the funeral service immediately following. Interment will be held on September 19, 2025, at Oakwood Memorial Park Chapel, 2405 Champlain Street in Ottawa, following the funeral service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Mueller Funeral Home in Ottawa.

You may sign the online guestbook and share remembrances at www.MuellerFH.com. Mueller Funeral Home and Crematory 800 First Avenue, Ottawa, IL 61350 815-434-4433