Mary Ann Olson

Mary Ann Olson of St. Mary’s passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 8th.

Mary was born in Mankato, Minnesota to Lester and Clara Lang and lived there until her family moved to Southern California as a child. She attended UCLA and obtained a master’s degree in classical languages and began her career as a language professor, teaching for years in the Los Angeles school district. In her personal life, Mary was active in her Bavarian dance club, playing classical piano, and enjoyed growing flowers and herbs.

She was married to Elmer Olson in 1972 and the couple moved to St. Mary’s Kansas in 1984. Mary continued to teach languages at St. Mary’s Academy and College, including German and Latin until her retirement, and continued to tutor individual students in language. Mary was a devout Catholic from birth and maintained her strong faith throughout her life.

Mary is survived by her daughter Rose, her three sons, Matthew, Christopher, John, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Requiem Mass will be at 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 18, 2024, at the Immaculata Church. Interment will be in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery. Mrs. Olson will lie in state from 2:00 until 4:00 P.M. Monday, June 17, 2024, at Piper Funeral Home. A Rosary will be recited at 5:20 PM Monday evening, June 17, 2024, at the Immaculata.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Immaculata Church or used to offer masses for Mary's intentions.