Mary Olson passed away September 27, 2023. Born Mary Irene Stahl May 20, 1934, in Girard, KS, Mary was the second of six children of John and Cecilia Stahl. Mary grew up surrounded by a large extended family.
Mary attended St. Aloysius Catholic School in Greenbush, KS and graduated from St. Mary's Colgan High School, Pittsburg ,KS.
Upon graduation, Mary moved to Kansas City where she worked over the years as a secretary. Mary eventually moved to Olathe, KS where she lived for more than fifty years.
Mary was a long time member of St Paul's Catholic Church, Olathe, KS.
Mary met her beloved husband Merlin while working at Southwest Grease, Olathe, KS. They were married thirty three years until his passing in February, 2023.
Mary was an avid bowler, enjoyed boating, loved spending time with family and friends, traveling, and going to polka dances.
Mary loved her trips to the casino and was a loyal KC Chiefs and Royals fan.
Mary was a proud member of the American Legion Post 153, Ladies Auxiliary serving as its Chaplain, Sgt. at Arms, Poppy Chairman. Scholarship Chairman, 2nd District Sgt. at Arms. Mary enjoyed participating in the annual poppy sales, helping with bingo night, and attending their annual conventions with her husband.
Mary remained in her home until October 2022 and most recently lived in Garden Villas, assisted living facility, Lenexa, KS.
Mary loved life, loved people, and made a friend wherever she went. She was always willing to help a friend in need. Her friendly smile and sense of fun will be greatly missed.
Mary is survived by her daughter Rose Jost, San Diego, CA, grandchildren, Hannah Jost, Studio City, CA, Allison Balke, (Taylor), San Diego, CA, Trevor Jost, San Diego, CA, great-grandson, Rory Balke, San Diego, CA. Sisters Patricia Busse, Lakewood, CA, Frances Moorhead, (Alan), Albuquerque, NM, brother John Stahl, Williamsburg, NM, Sister-in-Law, Elsie Swanson, Salina, KS, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to The American Legion Ladies Auxiliary Scholarship Committee, 410 E. Dennis Ave, Olathe, KS 66061 Attn: Linda Wheeler
or
St. Jude's Children's Hospital. 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis,TN 38105.
St. Jude's Children's HospitalThe family would like to invite you to a luncheon following the service from 12:30 to 3:30 at The American Legion, 410 E. Dennis Avenue, Olathe, Kansas.
To share a memory of Mary or leave a special message for her family, please visit the guestbook below.