Gertrude Olson

Obituary Gertrude "Trudi" McConnell Olson, 88, died November 25, 2006. She was a lifetime member of Holy Cross Catholic Church having been baptized and married there. Gertrude was an active parishioner always willing to help whenever Father called. "Gertie" was preceded in death by her husband of 35 years, Mark W. McConnell and survived by their three children; daughters Norma Jean (and husband Bruce Briggs), Mary Lou (and husband, Larry Hertzberg), and son M. William (and wife, Betty Jo). She was widowed by Russell I. Olson after 10 years of marriage. For many years "Mrs. McConnell" was the mainstay in the lunch room at Holy Cross School always having a kind and encouraging word for the children as she served them their lunch. In 1984 she retired from Puget Sound National Bank after 15 years of service. "Nanny" was a dedicated & loving wife, mother and grandmother. She is survived be her dear and devoted Fred Olson, as well as, a large circle of extended family and friends to include 13 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great grandchildren, and Paul, Eric and Jeremy Olson. One of her great pleasures was dancing, often dancing up to five nights a week. She loved gardening, particularly roses, travel, family gatherings and "cleaning her house". She will be truly missed and always remembered for her wonderful upbeat spirit. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday December 4, 2006 at 11 AM at Holy Cross Catholic Church. There will be a Rosary on Sunday evening at 7:00 PM at the Gaffney Funeral Home Chapel. Interment at Calvary Cemetery. Donations may be made in Trudi's name to Franciscan Hospice House. P.O. Box 1502 Tacoma, WA 98401-1502.