Shirley E. Olson

Shirley E. Olson (nee’ Bagley)
June 18, 1937-October 6, 2024

Welcomed to Heaven just after midnight Sunday morning, October 6, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Rev. Nat Olson. Devoted mother of Melody (Bruce) Ridge and Joy (Gregory) Buford. Loving grandmother of Andrew Ridge and Alexis (Michael) Pursley. Proud great-grandmother of Cameron Allan Pursley. Cherished sister of Beverly (Dan) Fester and dear sister-in-law of Marilyn Bagley. Survived by many cousins, nieces, nephew, friends and neighbors in Wauwatosa.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 42 years, Nat; her parents, Leo and Dorothy Bagley; father-in-law Rev. Peter Olson and mother-in-law Olive Olson; brothers Harland and John Bagley; sisters Donna (Jacob Sr.) Adams and Sharon Bagley; as well as dear aunts, uncles and cousins.

Shirley spent her early childhood in Lyndon Station, Wisconsin. After her father’s early passing, she moved to Milwaukee in 1947. Raised by her godly mother along with four brothers and sisters, she learned to play the piano and was soon accompanying church services. Shirley became a committed Christian at the age of ten.

She graduated from Washington High School in 1956 and later attended Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, where she met her future husband. Nat and Shirley were married in Milwaukee on October 25, 1958. The Olsons traveled as evangelists and were in ministry throughout their marriage. She served as Nat’s secretary at Familytime Ministries and was proud to have typed the manuscripts for Nat’s 13 inspirational books.

Shirley had a beautiful alto voice and sang at churches throughout the United States and Canada. She was also a member of the choir at Bethel Tabernacle Assembly of God for many years.

Shirley enjoyed traveling to Israel and Europe on several occasions with her family. She was passionate about veterans’ causes as well as Jewish ministries.

In addition to being a loyal mom, Shirley adored being a grandmother to Andrew and Alexis. She was excited to welcome her first great-grandchild, Cameron, last November.

Shirley remained remarkably healthy and independent until this summer, when her health suddenly declined. The family wishes to thank the Zilber Family Hospice in Wauwatosa for their incredible compassion and tender care of Shirley in the last chapter of her life.

Funeral services will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 21600 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, Wisconsin on Monday, October 14, 2024 with visitation from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM, followed by service at 11:30 AM. Interment to follow at Wisconsin Memorial Park.

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