Paulina Anna Olson

Originally from the Netherlands, Paulina made southern Arizona her home for 55 years, living in both Tucson and Sierra Vista. She met her husband, Dr. Gordon E. Olson, while he was completing his medical residency in Amsterdam, where Paulina was working as a registered nurse.

After marrying, the couple settled in Sierra Vista, Arizona, where Dr. Olson established his medical practice and Paulina served as the office manager. Together they welcomed two children — their son, Gordon, born in November 1975, and their daughter, Maria, born in August 1977.

Paulina and Gordon cherished their ties to the Netherlands, returning frequently to visit family and to enjoy the country’s art, museums, and culture. They also shared a love of travel, exploring destinations across Europe and throughout the United States.

In the mid-1990s, Paulina and Gordon purchased a home in Tucson and retired there in 1999. After her husband’s passing in November 2000, Paulina found comfort in spending time with friends and visiting family both near and abroad.

A lifelong lover of the arts, Paulina enjoyed music, theater, and reading. She valued her friendships, her home, and the simple pleasures of a good book and meaningful conversation.

She was preceded in death by her husband Gordon E. Olson, her parents Fraciscus Kalse and Maria Helena Kalse, and her daughter Maria Olson. Survived by her son, Gordon (Jessica) Olson, sisters, Johanna Olson and Iet Rijkes, and grandchildren Sawyer Olson and Kennedy Olson.

A committal service for Paulina will be held Monday, October 13, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM at EAST LAWN PALMS CEMETERY, 5801 East Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85712.