Lillian Florence Olson was a remarkable woman, whose life touched countless others with love, kindness, and generosity. Born on April 17, 1933, Lillian was a devoted wife to Melvin Olson, whom she married in 1958. Together, they raised five children: Carol, Joanne, Mel, Dale, and Mark. She was also a proud grandmother to Matt, Caitie, Mitch, Tyler, and Cayley, and a loving great-grandmother to Lavar, Braxton, Swayze, Marina, and Sofia. Lillian’s family was her world, and she was their biggest cheerleader—always there to support, encourage, and believe in them, no matter what.

Lillian had a deep passion for gardening, which she cultivated with love, and she was also known for her exceptional skill in crafting porcelain dolls, creating exquisite works of art that showcased her creativity and craftsmanship. Photography was another of her passions; Lillian was often seen with her camera, capturing the beauty of sunsets and the wildlife that surrounded her happy home. It was rare to find her without her camera in hand, always ready to capture a beautiful moment, a scene that spoke to her heart.

But perhaps one of Lillian’s most extraordinary qualities was her kindness and generosity. She was a trailblazer in her community, becoming the first official “landlady” in Alberta to support people struggling with mental health challenges and homelessness. Over the years, she opened her home to over 1,000 people, offering not just a roof, but a future, a safe space, and a friend to those who needed it most.

Lillian's legacy is one of love, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to making the world a better place for others. Her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched, and the values she instilled in those around her.

Lillian Florence Olson, born on April 17, 1933, left this world on January 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Married to Melvin Olson in 1958, she raised five children—Carol, Joanne, Mel, Dale, and Mark—always putting family first. Lillian was a constant presence at hockey games, horseback riding lessons, and every family milestone, supporting her kids and helping to grow the family business with heart and commitment.

She was a woman whose home was always open, welcoming in stray pups, offering a safe haven to those in need, and offering a quiet, steadfast support to anyone lucky enough to know her. A little bit of a saint, really, with a heart that never knew limits. Her family and friends always felt her love, and she gave everything to ensure they felt valued and cared for.

Lillian was passionate about the simple pleasures in life—gardening, crafting porcelain dolls with intricate care, and capturing the beauty of the world around her with her ever-present camera. It was rare to find her without it, always ready to snap a photo of the sunset or wildlife that crossed her path, seeing the beauty in the moments most might miss.

Her kindness reached beyond her immediate circle. Lillian made history as the first official “landlady” in Alberta to support people struggling with mental health issues and homelessness. Over the years, she opened her home to over 1,000 people, offering not just a place to stay, but a chance to heal, grow, and rebuild their lives.

Lillian’s memory will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy is one of quiet strength, deep love, and a life spent in service to others. She may be gone, but her spirit—her warmth, her generosity, and her fierce devotion—will continue to touch us all.