Marilyn J. Bourassa Olson

Marilyn J. Olson passed away on November 1, 2024, at Benedictine Living Community in Dickinson, ND. She was born to Clarence and Margaret Bourassa on November 29, 1944, in Scobey, MT. She grew up with her older brother (Ron), whom she was close to throughout her life. Marilyn spent her early years in Whitetail, MT, where she attended primary school, later moving to Spokane, WA, for high school. After graduation, she returned to Montana to join her parents in Crane, where she helped run the family business, the Crane Market.

On May 5, 1989, she married Charles J. Olson, gaining a family of her own as a beloved stepmother to Travis, Leif, and Jennifer. The couple moved to a ranch in Pompey’s Pillar in 1990, sharing a love for rural life until Charles's passing in 1994.

Marilyn was dedicated to furthering her skills and pursued studies at May Technical College in Billings. After completing her education, she moved to Livingston, where she worked at Livingston Memorial Hospital as a Reception Clerk in Admissions. She retired in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and professionalism.

Her faith was a significant part of her life. Marilyn was an active member of her church, serving as church council secretary for five years. She contributed her time to various church activities, including quilting for Lutheran World Relief and helping make lefse for the annual Lutefisk dinners.

Marilyn was also involved in the Livingston community. She volunteered with the Meals on Wheels program and was a regular contributor to Loaves and Fishes, a local food bank. She loved her daily walks around Sacagawea Park, where she found peace and joy in the natural surroundings.

In her spare time, Marilyn loved puzzles, crossword puzzles, and word scrambles, always keeping her mind sharp. Known for her wit and humor, she delighted friends and family with her favorite saying: “When God said brains, I thought he said trains, and I guess I missed mine.”

Marilyn will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and commitment to helping others. Her life was a testament to the importance of family, faith, and community.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles; her stepson, Travis; her brother, Ron; her parents, Clarence and Margaret; and several other beloved family members.

Marilyn is survived by her stepson, Leif (Amber), of Pompey’s Pillar; her stepdaughter, Jennifer (Fidel), of Dickinson, ND; her daughter-in-law, Francisca, of Watford City; her grandchildren, Mikala, Shiloah, Aaron, and Charles; and various cousins.

The family invites you to honor Marilyn with a donation to Loaves and Fishes instead of sending flowers.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, November 12th at 10:00 a.m., at the American Lutheran Church in Livingston.  A reception will immediately follow at the church where a light luncheon will be served.  The graveside committal will take place following the reception at Mountain View Cemetery in Big Timber beginning at 1:00 p.m. 

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