Donna Jean Olson, 74

Donna Jean Olson was born in Wallace, Idaho, on Aug. 31, 1945, and passed away in Hayden on Feb 6, 2020, at Schneidmiller Hospice House. Donna was the daughter of Harry and Amber Olson. She spent her childhood in Wallace growing up with her brother, Douglas. After graduating from Wallace High School she went on to the University of Idaho, where she graduated in 1967 with a bachelor’s degree in education. She earned her master’s degree in 1971 from Washington State University.

Donna worked in collegiate athletics for 40 years as a coach and administrator. She was an associate athletics director at Montclair State University for many years after spending time as head softball and field hockey coach. She spent the last 16 years of her career as a senior women’s athletic director at the University of Minnesota.

Donna received numerous awards during her career. Following her retirement, she received the 2012 National Association of Collegiate Women’s Athletics Administrators Lifetime Achievement Award, which is given to individuals who have dedicated their professional career to advancing women in sport and rendered meritorious service.

Donna’s winning smile, her ability to make personal connections along with her unwavering commitment to the women student-athletes ensured her lasting legacy.

After her retirement in 2001, Donna returned to her home state of Idaho and established residence in Twin Lakes Village in Rathdrum. She was active in all aspects of the Twin Lakes community. Her caring nature and sense of humor endeared her to all who knew her.

Donna is survived by her brother, Doug and sister-in-law, Lile, in Twin Lakes; her nieces Julie Aloisio (John) and Debra Jensen (Rand); nephew, Doug Olson (Kim) and their children and grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her family and her many friends across the country.

A celebration of Donna’s life will be held in June of 2020. Memorial contributions in Donna’s name may be made to Schneidmiller House Hospice of North Idaho or to University of Minnesota Patty Berg Fund for Women’s Sports.