Arlene Marie Olson (Koppang)

Age 91 of Duluth passed away peacefully at home on October 30, 2023, with family by her side.

Arlene was born on November 11, 1931 in Bemidji, MN to Carl and Edna Koppang. She was the first of two children; sister Marlyce was born 5 years later. She attended Bemidji High School, graduating in 1949. On January 5, 1951 she married Glenn Ronald Olson, also of Bemidji. Glenn served in the military much of his career. It took them to Hibbing, MN for seven years, and subsequently to Duluth in 1963. Together, they raised their five children on Tioga Street in Duluth’s Lakeside neighborhood.

Arlene worked nearly 30 years as secretary at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd. She also volunteered there as a quilter, kitchen worker, funeral reception director, Church Council Secretary, Miriam Circle member, and prayer shawl ministry knitter.

Arlene’s greatest love was her family. She enjoyed spending time with all of them – holidays, traveling to their homes, resort weeks, canoe trips, and just about any opportunity that came up. She loved her people, and they loved her!

Preceded in death by parents, Carl and Edna Koppang of Bemidji, MN.

Arlene is survived by her loving husband of 72 years, Glenn Olson; daughter, Marcia K. Semerau, Duluth, MN; son, Brad (Laura) Olson, Asheville, NC; daughter, Kristin (Loren) Davis, Mound, MN; son, Jeff (Paola) Olson, Murphy, NC; son, Bruce (Heidi) Olson, Altoona, WI; eleven grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; sister, Marlyce Kirtland, Danbury, WI; a niece, nephews, and many other loving relatives and friends.

Arlene will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and Servant of Christ.

Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, November 25, S 2023 at 11:00 a.m., Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1325 North 45th Ave. East, Duluth, with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are welcomed to Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd Endowment Fund.