Gloria T. Olson

Gloria T. Olson, aged 87 of Bismarck, passed away peacefully on October 31st, 2024, her life an immense testament to the vitality of family, community, and purpose.

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, November 5 at Faith Lutheran Church, 1402 E Ave C, Bismarck. 

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, Monday, November 4 at Eastgate Funeral Service, 2302 Divide Ave, Bismarck. 

Interment will be held at 1:30 PM, Tuesday November 5 at Rosehill Cemetery, Minot.

The service will be livestreamed on Faith Lutheran Church's Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/faithlutheranbismarck/

Born on July 29, 1937, on a farm west of Newburg, North Dakota, to John and Gladys (Stutrud) Tandberg, Gloria grew up in rural Newburg and Deering, and she completed her education at Deering High School in 1955. Just a week after her graduation, she embarked on her career with Northwestern Bell in Minot, ND. 

Gloria met Milton “Milt” Olson at a dance in Upham, ND and on May 3, 1957, the two were joined in marriage. Together, they raised two sons, Craig and Cary, moving from Minot to Bismarck and Fargo before returning to settle in Bismarck. Gloria's professional journey was marked by groundbreaking achievements; while in Minot, she worked in the district office and commercial departments. In 1966, she was appointed staff assistant in Bismarck. She was promoted to assistant manager of the Fargo office in 1972. And in 1973 she made history by becoming the first woman to manage the Bismarck office, a role she embraced with dedication and skill for the following 14 years before early retirement in 1987. 

In 1985, Gloria and Milton ventured into a new chapter by purchasing the Burnt Creek Club, a vibrant hub of dancing, fun, and friendship in Bismarck. After Milton's passing in 1990, Gloria continued to nurture the club until her retirement in 1997.

As the founding charter president of Quota International of Bismarck-Mandan in 1977, she played an instrumental role in the club's activities throughout her life. Her leadership extended to serving as Director & President of the United Way, President of the Bismarck Development Association, and the President of the Chamber of Commerce. A lifetime member of Faith Lutheran Church, Gloria spearheaded and advocated for major renovations to the church while serving as President of the Church Council. 

In 2000, Gloria embraced a new partnership with Roland “Rollie” Haux, where they shared winters in Lake Havasu City, AZ, playing golf and building a vibrant community of friends. They enjoyed bingo nights and were passionate supporters of the Twins, Vikings, and Bison. Together, they blended their families, a source of immense pride and joy for Gloria.

Gloria leaves behind her sons, Craig (LeeAnn) Olson of Maxbass, ND, and Cary (Tari) Olson of Bismarck, ND; Rollie's children, Penny (Joe) Wolfe and Todd Haux, both of Bismarck; cherished grandchildren, Lacie (Matt), Jolene (Nick), Levi (Ashlar), Megan, Amanda (Erik), Brett, Shaun, Abby, Joseph, and a legacy of ten great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, as well as a sister-in-law, Carolyn Tandberg; Godchildren, Cassie and Lynda, and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Gloria was preceded in death by her husband of 32 years Milton Olson and her partner of 20 years Rollie; as well as her parents, John and Gladys Tandberg; brother, Ardien Tandberg; grandson, Ryan; Rollie’s granddaughter, Callie, and sister and brother-in-law Verna (Olson) and Willard Jacobson. 

Gloria lived her life as a powerful force for good. She burned brightly and leaves behind a large community of family and friends enriched by her love, legacy, and unwavering spirit.

Rest in peace, Gloria. You have truly made the world a brighter place.