Helen M. Olsen, 92

Helen M. (Graham) Olsen, 92, died peacefully on January 10, 2024, surrounded by her family. She had been a resident of Heather Haus in Blooming Prairie for the past ten years.

Helen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Christy; daughter-in-law, Judy; her parents, six brothers and three sisters. She is survived by her sons Chris (Virginia Carnahan), Arlie (Evelyn), Donn (Mari), daughters Sheri Olsen and Luann (Peter) Quayle, ten grandchildren and sixteen great-grandchildren. She was a favorite aunt to her many nieces and nephews and treasured by a wide circle of friends.

Born on March 25, 1931, she was the tenth child of Jay and Clara Graham of Burt, IA. She grew up across the street from the school, so their home was often a gathering place for friends. She would regale you with stories of dance parties over lunch, and how their family sheltered extra children during the Armistice Day blizzard. Helen was a proud member of the Burt HS girls’ basketball team (half court) and loved to watch a variety of sports her entire life. She married her high school sweetheart, Christy, on June 27, 1948, and they were blessed to enjoy 67 years of marriage. Helen and Christy farmed in rural Blooming Prairie for over 40 years, moving to Rochester in 1990. When faced with several health concerns, they returned to Blooming Prairie.

Helen could do it all! She helped Christy with farm work, was a fabulous cook and baker, an enthusiastic supporter of her children’s many school activities-you name it! She was a dedicated 4-H leader for many years, participated in UMN Extension Group, and MN Cowbelles, where she was named Cowbelle of the Year in 1982. Helen was an active member of the United Methodist Church, both in Blooming Prairie and at Christ United in Rochester; being part of the choir and UMW groups brought her much joy and lasting friendships. Most of all, she loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them however she could-whether it was in-person, or by phone or email. She even learned how to Zoom during the pandemic!

Helen donated her body to the Mayo College of Medicine. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 14th, at First Lutheran Church in Blooming Prairie. Visitation time with family will begin at 10 am, followed by the service at 11 am, with food and fellowship at the BP Servicemen’s Club from 12:30 – 5 pm. Memorials can be directed to the BP Servicemen’s Club or Heather Haus.

Helen’s family wishes to thank the wonderful staff and residents of Heather Haus and Prairie Manor for their care and friendship these past ten years