November 12, 1949-February 13, 2026
Sandra Jean Olsen was born on November 12, 1949, in Seekonk, Massachusetts, to Jim and Audrey (Wormell) Knight. She grew up in Seekonk and graduated in 1967 as a member of the first graduating class of Seekonk High School.
She continued her education at the University of Memphis and later at the Methodist Theological School in Delaware, Ohio. It was there she met the love of her life, Douglas Olsen. They were married on September 9, 1972, in Hebronville,
Massachusetts, beginning a life rooted in faith, service, and devotion. Together, they built a home centered on ministry and family and were blessed with two children.
As a pastor’s wife, Sandra embraced church life as a calling. She sang in the choirs at Dundee, Calvary United Methodist, and Stoney Creek United Methodist Churches and served on the Board of Trustees in Dundee. Her steady presence and servant’s heart strengthened every congregation she touched.
Sandra worked as a para-educator at Lincoln Consolidated Schools in Ypsilanti and later served four years on the Lincoln Consolidated School District Board of Education, advocating for students and families with care and integrity.
She was an avid reader who loved mystery novels and expressed her creativity through sewing, cross-stitch, and rug hooking. She was also an incredible baker, sharing homemade treats at church gatherings, family celebrations, and ordinary afternoons made special by something warm from her kitchen. She enjoyed adult coloring books and crossword puzzles, always keeping her mind engaged.
Sandra was a cherished member of the Dundee Area Senior Citizens Center, where she enjoyed painting, outings, and fellowship with friends. Community and connection were important to her.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved husband, Reverend Douglas Olsen.
She leaves behind her daughter, Kristen Olsen; son, James (Jessica) Olsen; brother, John Knight; grandsons, Jude and Simon Hashman; sister-in-law, Susan Weber; and many dear friends and church family members.
A Memorial Service will be held at St. John Lutheran Church on March 28th at 11:00 a.m.
Sandra’s life was marked by steady faith, quiet creativity, and enduring love. The warmth she carried will continue to shine in all who knew her.
Online guests may share words of comfort or a photo at www.merklefs.com.
Last Updated on August 26, 2026