Remembering Rev. Stanley N. Olson: A Life Rooted in Grace and Service
Rev. Stanley Norris Olson, child of God, died suddenly on September 12, 2025, at the age of 79. His life and ministry touched countless people across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and beyond, leaving a legacy of faithful leadership and gentle grace.
Read the full obituary here: Washburn-McReavy Obituary for Stanley Norris Olson
Born in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and baptized into Christ as an infant, Stan lived his life with a deep commitment to faith, learning, and service. After completing studies at Waldorf College, St. Olaf College, Luther Seminary, and Yale University, he served the church in a variety of significant roles: parish pastor, seminary professor, bishop of the Southwestern Minnesota Synod, Executive Director for Vocation and Education for the ELCA, and president of both Wartburg Seminary and Trinity Seminary. In retirement, he remained active as a member of Grace University Lutheran Church in Minneapolis.
Throughout these ministries, Stan was known as a leader with a servant’s heart. He built relationships, listened deeply, and reminded those around him of the kindness and goodness of God. He lived his confidence in the promise of Romans 8—that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
Stan shared 54 years of marriage and ministry partnership with his wife, Nancy, and together they raised two daughters. He was also a writer, gardener, artist, teacher, and friend. His faith was not only proclaimed but lived in daily acts of care, curiosity, and delight in God’s creation.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 20, at 1:00 p.m. at Central Lutheran Church, 333 South 12th Street, Minneapolis, MN, with visitation beginning at 12 noon. In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial gifts to Grace University Lutheran, Luther Seminary, Wartburg Seminary, or Lutheran World Relief.
We give thanks to God for the life and witness of Rev. Stanley Norris Olson, confident that the same grace he proclaimed throughout his ministry now holds him in eternal love.
Read the full obituary here: Washburn-McReavy Obituary for Stanley Norris Olson