Services for Gloria Olness

Gloria Olness of Bagley, MN passed away on Saturday, November 30 at Havenwood Care Center, Bemidji, MN at the age of 65.  
 Gloria Elizabeth Olness was born on May 29, 1954 in Bagley, MN to Gorde and Viola Johnson Olness. Gloria spent her early years with parents and siblings on the family farm in Hangaard Township, Gonvick, MN.  In 1967 Gloria moved to the Brainerd State School and Hospital in Brainerd, MN.   Gloria returned to the area in 1975 and was one of the earliest residents of Pine Ridge Residence in Bagley, MN.  While there, she was active in church, residential, and community work. Gloria called Pine Ridge home and remained there for forty-one years before moving to Havenwood Care Center in 2016.  
 Gloria captured the hearts of those around her with her endearing laugh and heart-warming hugs, earning her the nicknames of “Princess” and “Globug.”  She would greet you with a big smile, hug, giggle, and twinkle in her eye—especially if she thought you brought her some beloved “Coke” and “chocolate.”  Gloria especially enjoyed babies and young children and would take pleasure in them when they were around. 
 Gloria was a go-getter and simply enjoyed keeping active and moving.  She took on household tasks and activities with energy.  She clearly knew what she liked or didn’t like doing. You always knew when she was up to mischief because her eyes would light up, and she would start to giggle. Her sense of humor was infectious, and she took pleasure in the simple things.  She enjoyed opening presents and was especially thrilled when she found something soft, pink, or flowery. She would declare that item as so “pretty.” When she discovered coke, pudding or chocolate as a surprise, she was especially excited. 
Although Gloria was very petite, she was quick—which earned her recognition in her younger years for her cross-country skiing abilities at Special Olympics.  Gloria was truly special with her playful laugh and heart-warming hugs, and she will be dearly missed by her family and friends. 
 Gloria is survived by her eight siblings: Shirley Delage of McIntosh, MN, Josephine Kelly of Edinburg, ND, John (Sherry) Olness of Superior, WI, Gorde (Rita) Olness of Cloquet, MN, Lueman (Roselie) Olness of Andover, MN, Viola (David) Myklejord of Fosston, MN, June (Carl) Hoon of Palmdale, CA and Mary Lou Slininger of Duluth, MN, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and her friends and caregivers.   
 She was preceded in death by her parents Gorde and Viola Olness and one infant brother, Gary.
A Celebration of Life will follow at a later date.  
 

Richards Publishing

P.O. Box 159
239 2nd Ave
Gonvick, MN 56644
Telephone: (218) 487-5225
email: richards@gvtel.com

 

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