Norene K. Olson

Norene K. Olson, age 77, of Madison, Wi, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 16, 2025. She was born on October 3, 1948 in Madison, Wi, to Lester and Bernice (Paulson) Ellefson.

Norene grew up as one of five siblings, graduating from Madison East High School in 1966. She entered into marriage with Loren Olson on September 9, 1967, in Monona. She was a caring woman, spending her life serving others. Norene was a devoted mother of two children and split time caring for them and working. Weekends were spent up at the family cabin in Hancock, Wi and volunteering at the American Legion Post No 501 where she was a lifetime auxiliary member. Norene retired from Holt Products where she thrived as a customer care and sales consultant. She enjoyed shopping and going to garage sales as well. She had an eye for finding the best deals and generously sharing those finds with others. Norene loved animals, dogs in particular. She will be missed by her great pyrenees Savvy.

One thing that Norene cherished the most was caring for people. She lovingly tended to her husband Loren during his battle with cancer. Her home and her heart were always open to family and friends. Whether they were looking for a place to stay during a time of need or looking for a babysitter so they could work or just have a night off, her door was always open. She welcomed anyone who needed help and relished the opportunity to care for her grandkids and then eventually her great grandkids. The bond and love that she shared with those kids is truly immeasurable. Her impact on our lives will be felt for generations to come.

Norene also demonstrated her passion for helping others by being a blood donor for most of her life. Even as her earthly time came to a close, she donated her organs to help provide others with the chance to live on and love as she spent her lifetime doing.

Norene is survived by her children Lisa (Brian Claas) Boyd and Kevin (Tracy) Olson; grandchildren Nikki (Eric) Landen, Jason (Stephanie) Boyd, and Jake (Torie) Olson; great grandchildren Isabelle, Bentley, Kevin, Lauren, Michael, Aria, and Myla; special grandmother to Taylor, Lily, and Arielle; sister Sandi (Dave) Zick; and many other nieces, nephews, and other friends and relatives; her beloved dog Savvy.

Norene was preceded in death by her husband, Loren Olson; parents Lester and Bernice Ellefson; siblings Leslie Graham, Rita Eddy, and Wanda St Dennis; grandson Kevin Olson and great-granddaughter Alayna Boyd.

There will be a celebration of life scheduled to take place May 2, 2026 at Burke Town Hall Park. This is located at 5365 Reiner Rd, Madison, Wi 53718, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.