Betty Ann Olson passed away in her home on February 4, 2026, just days before her 90th birthday. She was born on February 22, 1936, in Tillamook, Oregon, the third of thirteen children of Edward and Rosella Werner. At the time of her passing, she was the oldest surviving sibling.
Betty married Maurice Olson on November 15, 1958. They met, dated, and fell in love in Tillamook, where Betty was working at the Tillamook Creamery. They were united at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, followed by a legendary Werner family celebration, and remained together until Maurice’s passing in August 2022.
Family was Betty’s primary purpose and greatest joy. She was a committed and loving daughter, wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and created and nurtured a family that includes five children, nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and countless “grand pets.”
Raised on the Werner farm on Long Prairie Road, Betty worked hard alongside her siblings while attending Sacred Heart School, graduating in June 1954. For decades, the Sacred Heart community remained her spiritual home where she served through Catholic Daughters, as a lector, and by bringing Communion to the sick, elderly, and homebound.
In 1973, Betty and Maurice purchased property and built their dream home, where they raised their family and where Betty ultimately passed, surrounded by her children. Her home was a source of both joy and hard work, where she nurtured her family, tended her yard and garden, and created a space filled with laughter and warmth.
Beyond her devotion to family, Betty lived a life of service to her church and community. In 1978, she began working at the Tillamook High School cafeteria, where she formed lasting friendships and connection with staff and students.
Modest and humble about her talents, Betty possessed the voice of an angel, which she shared on rare occasions with family and friends who were privileged to hear elegant renditions of “Ave Maria,” and “Amazing Grace.”
Betty was known for her baking and cooking, a fierce sense of humor, and special ability to make people feel uniquely seen and valued. She will also be remembered for her legendary pickles, pies, and potato salad.
She is survived by her children: Debbie Fillo (Kevin), Gordon Olson (Carl Smith), Diana Blum (Jeff Abrams), Gerald Olson, and Janice Brooks (Brett). Grandchildren: Amy Boal (Jon), Emily Lee (Matt), Dustin Blum (Jessica Haas), Aaron Blum (Courtney Johnsen), Taylor Blum (Haley), Astor Olson, Courtney Schrudder (Kyle), Alexis Snyder, and Dakota Brooks. Great-grandchildren: Noah Boal; Maddie and Emma Schrudder; Lincoln Naylor; and Edward Blum. Siblings: Helen Carver (Jim), Theresa Zuercher, Mary Werner, Rose Hoffert, Eileen Tucker, Mike Werner (Sandy), Bob Werner (Janell), Don Werner, and Bill Werner (Carrie), along with many nieces and nephews.
She is also survived by sisters-in-law Jeanette Werner, Sharon Werner, Elma Marxen-Griffin, and Loretta Sloan, and brother-in-law Ken Olson (Ellen). She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Ed Werner and John Werner; her sister, Jean West; her sons-in-law, Mark Blum and Jeff Lindorff; and many other family members whom she loved.
Though she lived a long and rich life, Betty’s passing leaves a gap in her family and community. She will live on in the people she touched through her humor, music, and generosity. Her family is grateful for her devoted and beloved long-term caregivers and friends, Kimber Carver and Sara Koberstein.
In her memory, the family suggests planting flowers, hugging your loved ones, and donating to a charity of your choice in her name. A family memorial service and life celebration will be held this summer.