In Remembrance

Sheryl Ann Olson-Johnson, 71, of Saginaw, MN passed away peacefully at St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth, MN on September 11, 2023.  She fought a courageous battle against cancer for many years.  She was born on October 4, 1951 to Stanley and Lorraine Olson in Thief River Falls, MN.  Sheryl lived with her family in Forest Center, MN near the BWCA at a logging camp where she attended school.  She was the only daughter in her household and her mother said Sheryl ran the household and was the boss of her brothers.

She graduated from Duluth East High School in 1970.  She served in the US army as a MEDDAC, surgical orderly and medical assistant.  She became a respiratory therapist through The College of St. Scholastica and worked for St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth for 30 years and later worked in home health care.

Sheryl met the love of her life, Gregory Johnson, while serving in the army.  They married on March 10, 1979 in Milaca, MN. They spent many years traveling and enjoying life together.  They welcomed Nathan in September, 1985 and he was another love of Sheryl’s life.  The three of them spent time traveling, enjoying the outdoors and building their home together in Saginaw.  In February 1989 Sheryl received the devastating news that Greg had been killed by a drunk driver in a snowmobile accident.  Sheryl spent many years of her life as a passionate advocate for Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Sheryl loved the great outdoors.  She spent most of her life on her hobby farm in Saginaw raising chickens, rabbits, ducks, turkeys, dogs and a pony; riding her tractor; completing do-it-yourself projects and she loved to travel.

She is proceeded in death by her husband Gregory, father Stanley Olson, brother Randy Olson, father-in-law and mother-in-law

Alden and Dorothy Johnson and many beloved pets.  She is survived by her loving son Nathan Johnson, mother Lorraine Olson, brothers Allen, Arlen and Neil (Terri) Olson, brother-in-law and sister-in-law Gary and Lynda Nelson, many nieces, nephews, extended family, loving friends, her beloved dog Ava and parrot George.

We would like to thank all Sheryl’s family and friends who gave her love and support throughout her life.

Visitation with be on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 6537 Industrial Rd Saginaw, MN, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. and military honors and committal at 1 p.m. at Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery 4777 Hwy 53 Saginaw, MN.  Lunch will be served at the church.