Ruby Harriet Ferrel Olson

Ruby Harriet Ferrel Olson, 101, passed away October 31, 2009 at Good Samaritan Nursing Home in Idaho Falls.

Ruby was born June 6, 1908 in Lincoln, Nebraska to George W. and Albertie Statler Ferrel.  When Ruby was seven, the family left Nebraska for Idaho because of her mother’s health.  They traveled by a horse-drawn wagon.  Her mother died during the trip in Colorado. The family continued on to Moreland, Idaho.

Ruby attended school in Moreland, she was an exceptional art student.  After her schooling she traveled to Olympia, Washington where she worked as a telephone operator.

On June 6, 1929 she married Alf P. Olson in the Salt Lake City Temple.  They made their home in Rigby, then Shelley for several years before moving to Idaho Falls.

Ruby was a member of the L.D.S. church and served in many positions, including Stake Primary President and Stake Relief Society President.  Ruby and Alf served 4 missions, Virginia, Dallas Texas, and 2 at the Idaho Falls Temple Visitors Center.  She was involved with the Pink Ladies Auxiliary for many years and served as President.  She was also a Welcome Wagon Hostess.

For her 100

th

birthday a professional photographer took this picture of Ruby which won national and international awards.

Ruby’s hobbies included crocheting, puzzles, camping, traveling and especially fishing Henry’s Lake.

She is survived by her three children, LaVina (Bob) Jones, Marvin (Pat) Olson and Iris (John, deceased) Hudson, all of Idaho Falls, 10 grand children, 26 Great grand children and 9 great – great grand children.  Siblings are Francelle Hilts, Maxine Kopp and sister-in-law Kathy Ferrel.  She is preceded in death by her husband, parents, daughter, grandson, 2 brothers and 4 sisters.

The family wishes to thank the loving and caring staff at Good Samaritan Nursing Home for their many kindnesses of caring for Ruby.

Visitation will be Tuesday, November 3, 2009 from 12:00 to 1:00 at Nalder Funeral Home, 110 W. Oak in Shelley, prior to graveside services at Hillcrest Cemetery in Shelley. Family requests no flowers.