Ardelton Hanley 'Ardie' Olson

Ardelton Hanley "Ardie" Olson was born in Albin Township on December 16, 1926 to Hilmer and Gusta (Knudson) Olson. He grew up the youngest of 3 children on the family farm, attended the local country school, and Albion Lutheran Church where he was baptized and confirmed. Ardie enlisted in the United States Navy and served on the USS Anzio during World War II. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Minnesota and resumed farming, attended Agricultural School and learned to fly airplanes. During this time, he resumed his courtship with Rhoda Undestad who he had met at the roller rink before his deployment. The couple was united in marriage on September 9, 1949 at the First Lutheran Church in St. James. For the next 68 years, Ardie and Rhoda enjoyed living on the farm place they built together. Their extra special bond of love and devotion was a joy to be around. The couple was blessed with a daughter Jeanie, on November 18, 1951. Ardie enjoyed woodworking, fishing, creating gadgets to simplify life and most of all, spending time with his family and friends to whom he was quick to lend a helping hand. For Ardie, a stranger didn't remain a stranger for long. His humor and wit just came naturally to his conversations. He had a special way of connecting with people because of his great ability to listen with his heart and convey his genuine interest in others. He was enjoyed by anyone who knew him. Proverbs 3:5-6 carried Ardie through many of the ups and downs in life: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path." Ardie will be missed by many, but his memory will remain in our hearts. Ardelton Hanley "Ardie" Olson age 91, of Saint James, MN died on December 20, 2017, at the Mayo Clinic Health System in Springfield, MN. Ardie is survived by his wife, Rhoda Olson; daughter, Jeanie (Bob) Munsterman; grandson, Matt (Dayna) Shaffer; granddaughter, Sara Tharp; his very special great-grandchildren, along with many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Myrtle Olson; brother, Harlen Olson; brother-in-law, Milford Olson and sister-in-law Lucille Olson. Visitation 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Tuesday, December 26, 2017 Sturm Funeral Home, St. James Chapel 906 - 10th Ave. S. St. James, Minnesota, United States 56081 Visitation 10:00 am - 11:00 am Wednesday, December 27, 2017 Albion Lutheran Church, St. James 10454 250th Ave. Saint James, Minnesota, United States 56081 Service Information 11:00 am Wednesday, December 27, 2017 Albion Lutheran Church, St. James 10454 250th Ave. Saint James, Minnesota, United States 56081 Interment Information Albion Lutheran Cemetery-St. James 10454 250th Ave. St. James, Minnesota, United States 56081 Fellowship A reception will take place in the church immediately following interment. Military RItes Military honors will be provided by the St. James Veteran Honor Guard.