Donna Maye Olson

Donna Maye Olson, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 6, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born on November 10, 1945, in Langdon, ND, and grew up in the close-knit community of Fairdale, ND, where she developed a lifelong love of faith, family, and music.

After graduating from Jamestown College, Donna began her career as a first grade teacher in Grand Forks, ND. She had a gentle, nurturing spirit that made her a natural in the classroom, shaping the lives of young children with patience, creativity, and kindness.

Donna and her husband Dewey Olson made their home in Mayville, ND, where they raised their family and became a part of the town’s fabric. Donna lived in Mayville for over 50 years, building deep roots and lasting friendships in the community.

A talented seamstress, Donna lovingly sewed for many people around Christmas time, often creating thoughtful handmade gifts. She also made dresses and did alterations for friends and neighbors throughout the year. Her hands were rarely still, always working on something beautiful for someone else.

Music was another gift she shared generously. Donna had a lovely singing voice and played the piano with warmth and skill. She served as the pianist for the school choir and church, joyfully supporting student performances and enriching school life with her music.

Donna loved Jesus and lived her life grounded in quiet faith, humility, and compassion. Her steady devotion to God and family was a guiding light to all who knew her.

She also had a great love for sports—especially when it involved her family. Whether in the bleachers or on the sidelines, Donna loved watching her children and granddaughters play. She was their biggest cheerleader, always proud and always present.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dewey Olson; her son, Scott Olson; her parents, Lloyd and Maye Ormiston; sister-in law Jo Ormiston, brothers-in-law Ted Speidel, Ron Lovercheck, and Rodney Olson; and nieces Susan Jaramillo and Nancy Speidel Miller.

She is survived by her children, Steven Olson and Sarah Dole, and son-in-law Chris Dole; her cherished granddaughters, Hope, Ava, and Elle; her brother, Alan Ormiston; her sister, Bonlyn Speidel; her sisters-in-law, Sherri Lovercheck and Deanna Olson; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Donna was especially proud of and devoted to her three granddaughters—whom she enjoyed her summers at the lake with and loved so very much. Being their Grammy brought her immeasurable joy, and her love and presence will live on in their hearts forever.

Donna’s legacy of faith, family, music, and love will continue to echo in the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; …” - Galatians 5:22-23

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25:23

A service to celebrate Donna’s life will be held at the United Church of Christ in Mayville, North Dakota at a later date.