Valda Mae "Toots" Olson

Valda Mae “Toots” Olson, age 85, passed away early Wednesday morning, May 8, 2013, from a massive stroke. But before she unexpectedly left her family and friends, she spent her last day filled with sunshine on the deck and thoughts of hummingbirds, washing dishes and puttering in the kitchen, enjoying dinner and laughter with her daughter and son-in-law, and, as always, loving good-night kisses from her husband and their favorite bedtime prayers.

During the past two years, Toots, born August 21, 1927, was tenderly cared for by her granddaughter, Jennifer, with whom she lived in Kimberly. That care brought her to the happy life she had following her stroke two years ago.

Toots will be missed most by her husband of 67 years, Wallace Olson. Together the couple built a lifetime of memories in Appleton, where she was a member of St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church. They enjoyed their retirement time in Three Lakes, WI, and Clearwater, Fl.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Larry Olski, (Neenah) whose active companionship, outings and conversation brought her special joy, as well as a son James (Patty) Olson, (Barrington, Il.)

Grandma Tootsie always took great pleasure in baking cookies for her three grandchildren, Jennifer Olski, (Kimberly), Mark (Lisa) Olski and Darin (Lori) Olski, (Neenah) whom she enjoyed spoiling no matter how old they got.

With three great-granddaughters–Nikkole Olski (Swanton, OH), Lorrin Olski and Jaden Olski (Neenah)–Grandma Tootsie had even more reasons to share pictures and stories, which she always loved to tell.

Toots is also survived by her sister Betty (Eugene) Barth, and sisters-in-law Gladys Krueger and Pat (Ray) Miess, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews and godchildren.

Toots was preceeded in death by her parents Elmer and Irene (Nichols) Schmidt; brother Dennis and sister-in-law Marlene Schmidt; sisters-in-law Shirley Niemuth, Betty McGlin and Ruby Belile.

Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 11, 2013, at ST. MATTHEW EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH, 129 S. Mason Street, Appleton, with Rev. Thomas Mielke officiating. Friends may call directly at the church on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of services. Interment will be in Highland Memorial Park. A memorial in her honor will be established. Online condolences may be offered at www.wichmannfargo.com