- Date Of Birth: June 22, 1925
- Date Of Death: July 1, 2015
- State: Idaho
Dessie Juanita Hawks Olson will forever be remembered as a loving mother, a selfless supporter of those around her, a creatively talented artist, and a beautiful spirit. She was a woman who would give to all she met, a truly unique individual.
Dessie was born on June 22, 1925 to Josephine Westergaard Hawks and Vernon Hawks in Bremerton, Washington. Bundled in the sidecar of a motorbike, infant Dessie moved with her parents to Brigham City, Utah. In this community she completed her high school education to become a beautiful teen, popular in school activities and the functions of a small town.
Dessie’s artistic talents and creative mind crossed many venues. During high school she expressed herself through writing and poetry and as a member of the sketch club. Her artistic talents were employed to hand color professional black and white photographs. She also pursued a career modeling and singing, both of which provided opportunities across the country.
While working the soda fountain at the local pharmacy in Brigham City, she met her future husband, Cecil Olson. They were later married in Bellingham, Washington on November 24, 1946 while Cecil was stationed in the Navy on Whidbey Island. After sharing over two decades of marriage, they would divorce in the 1970’s.
Becoming a mother was a passion that rose above all others. This calling was first fulfilled with Christopher Brian followed by Heather JoAnn while living in Milwaukie, WI. A few years later, the family moved to Boise, ID to start Idaho Chemical Industries with partner, Clair Bush. Shortly after, the family was blessed again by the arrival of Curtis Ryan, then Chad Burton, two years later. Although small of stature, Dessie was a force to be reckoned with, particularly as an advocate for her children.
Her selfless nature was expressed in many ways. She was a listener, not a storyteller.
Dessie left this earth on July 1, 2015. She will be profoundly missed. Her parents and younger sister precede her in death.
Our family would like to express our deepest gratitude to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff at St. Alphonsus ICU, Palliative Care, and 5th South who helped care for Dessie and our family with respectful compassion and kindness.
