Wendy Olson, age 71, of Huron, passed away on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Avantara after a ten-year long battle with Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease, with her family by her side.
A Celebration of Wendy’s life will be held on Thursday, April 16, 2026 from 5-7 p.m. at Welter Funeral Home in Huron. Her family encourages all those who knew her to celebrate her life by visiting and telling stories of the Wendy we all knew and loved. A private family service will take place on Friday, April 17, 2026.
Wendy Lee was born on September 16, 1954 in Huron to parents Albert and Naomie (Stahl) Maass. She grew up in Yale and attended Yale and Iroquois Schools, graduating in 1972. After high school, Wendy attended Northwest College of Commerce in Huron. Wendy began a 35 plus year career with the federal government working for the Department of Agriculture at the federal building in Huron. Her career gave her many life-long friendships that she cherished throughout her life. Wendy retired in 2016.
Wendy married Randy L. Richards, and together they welcomed twin daughters, Megan and Brittany, in 1987. From that moment on, Wendy embraced her role as a loving, caring, and devoted mother. As the girls grew, she also “adopted” many of their friends, becoming a second mom to all. Whenever her daughters or their friends needed anything, Wendy was always there—without hesitation and with an open heart.
Wendy later married Dennis D. Olson, and together they shared many adventures. Whether traveling for work, attending Minnesota Twins games, or going on biking trips, they enjoyed spending time together and making memories along the way.
Wendy had a wide variety of hobbies and interests throughout her life. In her younger years, she enjoyed working with ceramics. She took great pride in decorating her home for every holiday, often keeping the kitchen counter stocked with sweet treats for anyone who stopped by. Wendy also loved cooking and baking—fitting for someone who definitely had a sweet tooth. Music was always a part of Wendy’s life and could often be heard playing in her home, adding warmth to everyday moments and special gatherings.
Later in life, Wendy became a proud Nana, a role she cherished deeply. She loved her grandsons more than anything, and they brought her endless joy and pride. She treasured every moment spent with them. She also enjoyed time with friends, especially during Bunco nights filled with laughter and good company, where music often added to the fun.
Above all else, Wendy loved spending time with her family—her girls, her grandsons, and her husband.
She is survived and will be missed immensely by her husband, Dennis of Huron; her daughters, Megan Hoffman of Eureka and Brittany (Keegan) McMahon of Huron; grandsons, Cohen and Theo Hoffman; step-son, Matt (Eryn) Olson of Iowa City, IA; her sister, Vicki Claassen of Brandon; her niece and nephew, Lisa Claasseen of Brandon and Casey Claassen of Sioux Falls. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother-in-law Dean Claassen.
The family wishes to thank the staff at Avantara for their loving care these past years. Their kindness will always be remembered.
Celebrate a life with the whole community in The Dakota Scout. Contact obits@thedakotascout.com to have your loved one remembered today.