Tribute

Linda Marie Olson lived life like she decorated for the holidays — with extravagance, laughter, and a touch of sparkle in every corner. She passed away on September 23, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and one very impressive hat collection. Linda was a one-of-a-kind mix of warmth, wit, and wonderful nuttiness — she could befriend anyone, whether they walked on two legs or scampered up a tree. She was the life of every gathering, her joy and laughter impossible to resist. Her generosity knew no bounds — she’d literally give you the ring off her finger (and probably insist you take a hat on your way out). She was a devoted mother, a playful and eccentric Nana, and a super-huggable Ga-Nana to her great-grandkids — who kept her going with their endless “smoocher-doochers.” Linda never met a Temu deal she didn’t love or a person she didn’t try to make smile. Her home was a cozy wonderland of elephant, fairy, and dachshund figurines — and come the holidays, it transformed into a singing, dancing extravaganza of Santas and Leprechauns. It was both a sight to behold and an obstacle course to survive, but to her family, it was pure Linda. Born in Bottineau, North Dakota, on March 15, 1946, Linda was the daughter of Marvel and Bernard “Barney” Jundt and sister to Doreen Jundt Wright. She grew up in Mayville before the family moved to Devils Lake, where her father owned the city’s largest furniture store. In high school, Linda shone as a musician, earning the John Philip Sousa Award for trombone — her love of music stayed with her throughout life. After graduating from Devils Lake Central, she continued her education, earning her LPN nursing diploma. Linda’s career reflected her caring heart — from nursing to executive assistant roles — always finding ways to make others feel seen, supported, and loved. But her greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Monique (Dean) Zimmerman and Jeffrey (Lina) Olson, along with eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren who adored her endlessly. She was preceded in death by her parents and sister. Linda’s sparkle, kindness, and humor will live on in every story told, every laugh shared, and every little treasure she left behind. And in her own words — with a wink and a smile — “What can I tell ya?” She will be terribly missed. From all her family and friends, Ciao.

Friends & Family