Sharyl Rae Bense

Sharyl Rae (Olson) Bense, age 80, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2023 in Mankato, MN. 

Sharyl was born on July 6, 1942 in Breckenridge, MN to Olger and Ann (Mehrer) Olson.  She grew up in Fairmont, ND with her older sister and younger brother.  She graduated from St. Luke’s Nursing School in Fargo, ND and then worked as a registered nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital in Fargo.  She later moved to the Minneapolis area to work for Fairview Southdale Hospital in Edina, MN as a surgical nurse in the 1970’s. 

In 1978, Sharyl moved to Mankato, MN and worked as an industrial nurse for Dotson Company where she met her husband, Don.  Sharyl and Don were married on May 17, 1980.  Sharyl later became a teacher’s assistant with MVED and worked with special needs students, primarily with braille students.  In her retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at Salvation Army.

Sharyl was an outgoing, loving person who generously gave her time and talent to all.  She enjoyed cooking, gardening, finding a good bargain and especially loved sharing those interests with others.  Above all, she was devoted to her family and friends who will deeply miss her constant caring and support.  She was her family’s greatest cheerleader. 

Sharyl is survived by her devoted husband, Don; brother, Marvin (Lynda) Olson; and many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Sonja Miller. 

A private family interment will be in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.  Mankato Mortuary assisted the family with arrangements.