FRIENDSHIP — Brenda J. Olsen, 80 of Friendship, passed away at her home on December 18, 2023. Brenda was born on February 3, 1943, to Francis Freeman and Grace (Mank) Freeman.

Brenda grew up in Burkettville and attended local schools, graduating from Appleton High School. Brenda married her husband Linwood W. Olsen October 13, 1961. The two were each other’s lifelong companions and friends for 62 years.

As a young lady Brenda worked at the Canning Factory in Rockland. It was at the Canning Factory that Brenda and Linwood met. She later worked in the lunch kitchens at the Friendship School, and Medomak Valley High school.

Brenda enjoyed life to the fullest by spending time with the love of her life, Linwood Olsen, and spoiling her family with trinkets she found at yard sales and toy auctions. She was a devoted wife and homemaker, always willing to host fun events at her home like Friendship Day and Fourth of July.

A favorite family memory is the time she made hundreds and hundreds of wreaths for Arlington National Cemetery. She was a thoughtful friend if folks were in need, to lend an ear or offer her support however needed. She enjoyed bird watching from her window from the bird houses her loving husband always gave her. Her favorite season was Christmas, to decorate the house every inch to the extreme for all to enjoy.

Brenda was a member of the Cushing and Burkettville Grange and enjoyed participating in their functions such as community dinners and fundraisers. Her family was her life, she was very proud of her four sons and her daughter. She adored her grandchildren and great grandchildren beyond measure.

Brenda was predeceased by her parents; her sister Fran Cressotti; and brother, Gene Freeman.

Brenda is survived by her husband, Linwood Olsen of Friendship; daughter Ginger Roman and husband Michael; sons Linwood Olsen Jr and wife Dory, Brent Olsen and wife Aimee, Dean Olsen and wife Shelby and Brandon Olsen and wife Amy; sister Diane Wooster, along with 11 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Brenda’s name may be made to the St. George Grange, 32 Wiley’s Corner Road, St. George, Maine, 04860.

Arrangements are entrusted to Hall’s of Waldoboro. To extend online condolences, light a candle for Brenda or to share a story or picture, please visit Brenda’s Book of Memories at www.hallfuneralhomes.com