Betty Ann Olson, 89, of Hiawatha, Kansas, passed away on February 23, 2025, at Amberwell Hiawatha. She was born on September 12, 1935, in Rulo, Nebraska, to Russell Adams and Alice (Steinhaur) Adams. Betty was one of 12 children and lived most of her life in northeast Kansas.
Betty graduated from Falls City High School in 1953. She worked as a telephone operator in Robinson, where she met and married the love of her life, Herbert E. Olson. The couple wed in Highland on July 10, 1955, and together they raised seven children filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories.
Betty was a member of the First Baptist Church Family Life Center in Hiawatha. She enjoyed camping, attending Elks Club events, and in her early married life, was a member of the Dozen and a Half Club in Highland.
Betty worked for many years as a cook at Robinson Elementary and Junior High School, where her warm meals and kind heart touched many lives. She also worked as a CNA at several nursing homes and at the Hiawatha Hospital.
Betty’s legacy will live on through her six surviving children: Doug (Lisa) Olson of Hiawatha; Teresa (Gary) Campbell of Clarksdale, MO; Pamela (Steven) Gunnells of Nolensville, TN; Steve (Robin) Olson of Burlington Junction, MO; Charles (Teresa) Olson of Hiawatha; and Jeff (Margaret) Olson of Hiawatha. She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, and one brother Roy Adams of Lincoln, NE.
Betty was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Herbert, one son Rick, and four brothers and six sisters.
Betty will be remembered for her selfless devotion to her family, her kindness, and her strength. She made an impact on everyone she encountered. Betty will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
A Celebration of Betty’s Eternal Life is planned for 11 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Hiawatha, with Pastor Michael Lehmann officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson.
Friends may call at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home after 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Sunday. The family will meet with friends one hour prior to services Monday at Church.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Betty Olson Memorial Fund, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., Hiawatha 66434.
www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com