Wanda Rae Olson

1929 - 2026

Wanda Rae Olson
October 31, 1929 - February 20, 2026
Wanda Rae Olson, 96, of Wenatchee, Washington, peacefully passed away on February 20, 2026, surrounded by her granddaughters, great-grandsons, and living angels: Julie Eichler, Colleen Pearson, and Kayleigh Hedges.
Wanda was born on October 31, 1929, to Howard and Beatrice Kellogg. She grew up in Malaga with her parents, two brothers, and her best friend, Patsy, her beloved horse.
In 1946, at just 16 years old, Wanda met the love of her life, Charles (Chuck) Olson. Recently discharged from WWII, Charles met Wanda and a few of her girlfriends in front of the Liberty theater. It was love at first sight. Charles would call her "his little bobby-soxer." That same year, Wanda was Miss Malaga in the Apple Blossom parade. She and Chuck married in 1946 and had their first son Chuck Olson, followed later by their second son, Rick Olson.
Together, Wanda and Chuck continued to build a life together and worked tirelessly to build a family home and plant an Orchard of apples, cherries, and peaches. They farmed a large orchard for over 50 years. Wanda worked alongside her husband. For years, she drove the fruit truck, at just 5'2" and 105 pounds, hauling many tons of fruit without power steering. It was uncommon in her day to work as hard as she did, but Wanda did it with grit and grace. She was known at the fruit sheds as a tough negotiator for a fair price. For over 70 years her home and farm have been a place to call home for her family. Wanda and Chuck were deeply proud of their hard work and legacy that they left for their family.
Wanda was also a talented artist. In her younger years, she painted many beautiful paintings. Though she was humble to never claim she was an artist, she was one. She also had a love for horses and dogs. She would say her best friend of her lifetime was Patsy, her horse, who lived for 38 years. Over her lifetime, more than 15 stray dogs found their way to her, each one becoming a loyal companion. Animals seemed naturally drawn to her spirit.
She loved nature. A gifted photographer, Wanda captured stunning images of the outdoors with a special interest in flowers, and most importantly, her family. She had a remarkable ability to document life's moments, preserving precious memories for generations.
Wanda was a devoted supporter of our military and was active in supporting the Republican Party throughout her life. She and Chuck generously supported many charities, including those benefiting the military, the Wounded Warrior Project, and the Humane Society.
Above all, Wanda was an extraordinary grandmother and great-grandmother. She was deeply involved in her grandchildren's lives, attending every school function, band concert, and dance recital. She rode bikes on the Loop Trail well into her 70's, hosted countless sleepovers, played dress up and loved to share her beautiful jewelry. She loved hiking, picking wildflowers, and taking her grandchildren on vacations. She truly loved spending time with them and gave her love selflessly and abundantly.
Wanda devoted her life to caring for her family. She lovingly cared for her oldest son after a devastating hunting accident. She tended to her aging parents so they could remain in their home until they passed. In his final years, she cared for her beloved Charles at home, ensuring he was able to pass peacefully in the home they built together. She was a force, compassionate and endlessly strong, caring for everyone around her until the very end.
Wanda is survived by her granddaughters, Denise Warden (Nate), Shayna Olson, and Ricki Cherry (Jesse), and great-grandsons, Kodi and Dylan Warden.
We are so grateful that Wanda is at home with our Heavenly Father, her husband, sons and countless friends and family members.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, March 2,,2026, at 12:00 pm at Chapel of the Valley, 378 Eastmont Ave. East Wenatchee, WA 98802, with private viewing at 10:30 am prior to the service. Graveside service to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, 1301 10th St. NE, East Wenatchee, WA 98802.
In lieu of flowers, Wanda would love donations to the Wenatchee Valley Humane Society.
Arrangements by Chapel of the Valley, East Wenatchee.