Noran Olson, 88, passed away peacefully at home on December 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Noran Stanley Olson was born on July 21, 1937, the youngest of ten children born to Helmer and Matilda (Christiansen) Olson on the family farm near Heimdal, North Dakota. Among his family and lifelong friends from “down home,” he was affectionately known as Stanley — a name that stayed with him throughout his life and reflected the roots he cherished.
Noran grew up in Heimdal and completed the 10th grade, which at that time was the highest level offered. At just 16, he began working for a local farmer, milking cows, and later went on to work for the railroad.
In 1957, Noran began dating Agnes Hanson of Esmond, North Dakota. With the help of his brother Harley, he purchased a farm in Juanita in 1958. The following year, he and Harley hurried through the harvest so Noran could marry his bride on August 30, 1959.
Always determined to build a stable future for his family, Noran attended trade school in Wahpeton in 1965. He began his long career as an office repair technician at Gaffaney’s in Minot on November 21, 1966 — the very same day Agnes drove to Cooperstown Hospital to welcome their fifth child. Shortly afterward, the family moved to Minot. While establishing their life there, Noran and Agnes purchased their first rental property, beginning what would grow into a lifelong commitment to Olson Home Rental.
Noran was a true “Mr. Fix‑It,” never afraid to tackle any project that came his way. Whether it involved plumbing, electrical work, or building something from the ground up, he approached every task with confidence and skill. He also had a well‑known preference for the color white, often saying, “You can paint it any color you want, as long as it’s white.”
Noran was an active and dedicated member of Eagles Aerie #2376. He was honored to serve as Worthy President in 1988–89 and again in 1997–98, and he generously volunteered his time as Club Manager for a year and a half. In 1998–99, he was named Dakota State Eagles Father, a recognition he cherished. In 1993, he and Agnes were proudly selected as Mr. and Mrs. Eagle — a reflection of their long-standing commitment to the organization. Noran decided to complete his education and in 1992 he received his GED in Minot.
Together, Noran and Agnes also volunteered at the Norsk Hostfest for more than 28 years, contributing countless hours and sharing their time and talents with the community they loved.
Noran and Agnes spent many happy years traveling via motorhome between North Dakota and Arizona before eventually purchasing a home in Arizona, where they cherished their winter months together. They loved traveling across the United States in their motorhome and especially enjoyed taking many cruises over the years. Their favorite destinations included Hawaii and the Western Caribbean, and they were fortunate to visit beautiful places such as Alaska, Aruba, Colombia, and Cozumel. Each trip created cherished memories they held close to their hearts.
Noran’s love for music began early. He was a self‑taught accordion player and at just seven years old, he taught himself to play, learning every note by ear. His natural talent brought joy to those around him, and as a young boy he proudly played at the Christmas programs in the Heimdal School—moments that became treasured memories for his family and community. He later learned to play the organ, violin, harmonica, washboard, and the jug as well. Sharing his gift wherever it could bring a smile or lift a spirit. He was honored and nervous to play his accordion for his granddaughter as she walked down the aisle at her wedding. Noran was especially excited that his youngest grandson is following in his footsteps by playing the accordion. This was very important to him.
Family was the center of Noran’s life. He treasured the special bond he shared with his nieces and nephews, including those who were older than he was. Although sports were never a great passion of his, Noran faithfully showed up for his grandchildren, attending at least one game or event each season simply to support them.
He was equally devoted to celebrating the milestones of those he loved. Noran never missed a baptism or confirmation, and he proudly attended every graduation, music concert, and Eagle Scout ceremony. Whether it was a big life achievement or watching the kids show their sheep at the fair, he was always there—present, supportive, and joyful. If it was important to his family, Noran made sure he was part of it.
Noran had an undeniable sweet tooth and enjoyed treats of every kind. Whether it was cookies, candy, or anything sugary, he savored it with the delight of a lifelong sweet lover. One of his greatest joys was sharing those treats with his grandchildren — offering them a piece of whatever he had, always with a grin that said the sweetness was even better when shared. And in true Noran fashion, every dessert was perfectly paired with a cup of strong, black coffee, just the way he liked it.
After many years traveling between their homes in ND and AZ, and the decision was made to part with their cherished home in Arizona and spend their time in ND where all their children reside. After a fall at the end of August, he was cared for by his loving wife and their daughters, who were with him in his final moments.
Left to cherish his memory and feel the weight of this tremendous loss is his devoted wife of 66 years, Agnes. His 6 children: Norlynn (Christine) Olson, Lori (David) Ray, Steven (Pamela) Olson, Karen Olson, Sandra (Tracy) Larson, Karla (Scott) Bredahl. 22 Grandchildren: Erica Olson, Anna (DJ) Aaseth, Andrew (Sierra) Schiele, Adair (Jeffery) Pollard, Aftin (Shawn) Neer, Nolynn Olson (Miriam Sue Yoder), Heidi Humphreys, Kyle (Brittney) Humphreys, Aaron (Jaclyn) Olson, Ashleigh (Ryan) Whitt, Wyatt Olson, Matilda Olson, Jamie Chilson, Karie Chilson, Dakota (Carley) Larson, Journey Larson, Carter Larson, Colton (Haley Filipek) Bredahl, Kaiden Bredahl, Kenadi (Joey) Berg, Cooper Bredahl, Kashtyn Bredahl. 20 Great Grandchildren: William, Wyatt, Lillyann, Tyler, MaKenzie, Addilynn, Cambelle, KyLeah, Lincoln, Gabriel, Joelle, Harrison, Kasen, Theodore, Soren, Zoey, Freya, Baker, Brooks, Bowen. Great-Great Grandson Doc.
He was welcomed in heaven by those who preceded him in death: his parents, Helmer and Matilda Olson, 9 siblings: Lillian (Orvin) Fossen, Hilda (Melvin) Djarsland, Harley Olson, Norman Olson, Inez (Robert) Steinmetz, Jeanette (Donald) Knote, Mavis (Sidney) Ambers, Marlys (John) Chrissis, Julian (Jane) Olson. Mother and Father-in-law: Amanda and Anton Hanson. Brother-in-law: Arnold Hanson. Sister-in-law: Alice (Glenn) Davidson. One infant Great-Grandson Colter Daniel Bredahl and many nieces, nephews, cousins and special friends.
Celebration of Life: Monday, December 29th, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot. To view a livestream of the service or share memories and condolences access his obituary at www.thomasfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Interment: Cremation has taken place. There will be no burial at this time.
Visitation: Sunday, December 28, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.
Prayer Service: Sunday, December 28, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, Minot.
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