Lori Jean Olson, 61, of Rapid City, SD passed away on July 21, 2023 in Rapid City, SD.

Lori was born in Brookings, SD to Ken and Rose Olson on May 17, 1962. She enjoyed a childhood of small town living in Volga, SD. In 1972 their family moved to Rapid City. Shortly after moving, the ’72 flood displaced her family. Lori and her sisters returned to the eastern part of the state living with their relatives for the summer. Here, Lori’s love of animals and nature continued to blossom.

Returning to Rapid, Lori attended RC Public Schools, graduating from Stevens High School in 1980. Never to be one to idle, Lori worked a variety of jobs. Running her daycare, working in the family business, and becoming a customer service representative were some of her favorite occupations.

Lori met and married John Kreber. They were blessed with two sons; Nathaniel Ross and Matthew John. Lori’s sons were her life! She was extremely proud of them.

Lori was quite the artist. She created paintings, drawings, and collected rocks that she later tumbled and utilized in nature mobiles. Lori loved watching her nieces and nephew play in sports and perform. She enjoyed riding her motorcycle, water activities, and hiking in the hills.

Lori later pursued her passion of traveling. She sold her home and purchased an RV. Lori’s constant companion Journey, her miniature Australian Shepard, was her pride and joy. Journey was never far from Lori’s side. They traveled together west to California, south to the Grand Canyon with Nathaniel, east to reunite with family and friends, and across the Pacific to Hawaii with her sister Janet. Though future travel was not in the cards, Lori continued to plan adventures closer to home. We can only imagine the glorious journey she is now on with her friends and the family she so loves. Her infectious energy and smile will never be forgotten.

Lori is survived by her son Nathaniel Kreber and her siblings; Dale, Janet, and Linda.

Lori is preceded in death by her son Matthew Kreber, parents Ken Olson, Rose and Orian Hawkins, and numerous aunts and uncles.

Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 on Saturday, July 28, 2023 at Behrens – Wilson Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Mountain View Cemetery in Rapid City, SD.

Lori requested that in her memory, families enjoy family time together; hiking, game night, or going to the beach.