Melissa B. (Torgerson) Olson

Melissa B. Olson, 52 of New London, died Thursday, July 17, 2025 at the University of Minnesota Fairview Hospital in Minneapolis.  A Celebration of Life will be from 4-7:00 pm. Friday, July 25, 2025 at the Spicer American Legion in Spicer.  Burial at a later date will be at Lebanon Cemetery in New London. Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home in New London.       

Melissa Blanche Olson was born on February 27, 1973, in Willmar, Minnesota, to Dale and Jeanette (Norstedt) Torgerson. She grew up in New London with her sisters, Lynette, Sheila and Brenda. Melissa attended New London-Spicer School and graduated with the Class of 1991.

On August 30, 1997, Melissa was united in marriage to Ross Olson. Together, they were blessed with two children, Tyler and Amber. They made their home in New London on the original Norstedt family farm. Melissa later graduated from Ridgewater College and began working at Rice Memorial Hospital. A few years later, she opened her own daycare, where she lovingly cared for many children. However, her most cherished role was caring for her mother and her grandchildren, Hudson and Haven.

Melissa loved spending time with her family and friends—family meant everything to her. She enjoyed playing cards, cooking, pontooning, hosting gatherings, attending car shows, listening to music, playing with her grandchildren, and going on side-by-side rides with her husband.

She will be remembered for her sense of humor, fun-loving spirit, and kind heart.

Melissa is survived by her loving husband, Ross; her children, Tyler Olson of New London and Amber Herem (Dillon) of Spicer; her beloved grandchildren, Hudson and Haven; her father, Dale Torgerson of Brooten; and her sisters, Lynette Robbin (Ronny) of Belgrade, Sheila Torgerson of Willmar, and Brenda Torgerson of Spicer. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Jeanette Torgerson; her parents-in-law, Harlow and Doris Olson; her aunt, Ardella Gassler; her uncle, Wayne Norstedt; cousins, Lori Townsend and Bruce “Buddy” Kliedon; and her niece, Brooke Gotvald.

Melissa will be dearly missed and never forgotten. Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her. 

We love you, Melissa.

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