Marie Theresa Niesen, 70, of Clayton died unexpectedly Monday, July 25, 2022 at her home.

She was born December 5, 1951 in Monticello, MN to Lambert and Marie (Gilles) Niesen.

Marie was raised in Monticello, graduated from Monticello High School and then earned a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Minnesota. She married Jim Olson in 1971, had four children and later divorced. Marie worked many years for US Fish and Wildlife as an inspector, draft architect and construction supervisor. She retired in April 2020. She loved being outdoors, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, canoe camping in the BWCAW and farming.

She is survived by her companion, Fred Gilbert of Wadena, MN; four children: Michelle Olson of Stewart, MN, Jonathan Olson of Clayton, Teresa Olson of Clayton, Rebecca (Pat Dunn) Olson of Woodbury, MN; grandchildren: Kevin, Korissa, Tierra, Jessica, Emilio, Abbey, Wyatt, and Olivia; great-granddaughter, Jovanna; siblings: Martha Narnia of Amery, Lambert "Chuck" (Mary) Niesen of Richfield, MN, Steve (Mary) Niesen of Parkville Branch, MO, and Margaret Niesen of Vadnais Heights, MN; many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Marie was preceded in death by her parents, two siblings: Mary Pearson and Fritz Niesen.

Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM Monday, August 1, 2022, at St. Rafael Catholic Church in Crystal, MN with a Rosary at 10:00 and a Latin Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 with Father Robert Altier officiating. Rites of Committal will take place at St. Henry Catholic Cemetery in Monticello with a reception to follow.

Last Update: Jul 28, 2022 2:05 pm CDT