Orlan “Ole” Solomonson

Orlan “Ole” Solomonson, 85, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 9, 2024. A memorial service to celebrate Ole’s life will be held at 5 p.m., Tuesday, July 30, at Koziak Radulovich Blaine Chapel, Blaine, Minn. Visitation will begin one hour prior, and a reception will follow the service.
Born Feb. 10, 1939, in Winnebago County, Ole was the first-born son of Iver and Gladys (Olson) Solomonson. He grew up in Lake Mills, and graduated from Lake Mills High School in 1957. Following his graduation, Ole honorably served in the Iowa National Guard and pursued his passion for baking at Dunwoody College of Technology.
On May 2, 1964, Ole married JoAnn Appel, and together, for 50 plus years, they built a life together in Blaine, Minn., until her death in 2015.
Ole was immensely proud of his Norwegian heritage, which he beautifully reflected in his exceptional baking skills. He was particularly known for his delicious lefse, cookies, pies and pancakes, which he generously shared with family and friends.
Ole cherished every moment spent with his children, grandchildren, and extended family. He also had a unique ability to make friends wherever he went, and his humor and jovial spirit left a lasting impression on all who knew him. He approached life with boundless optimism and kindness. For decades, Ole enjoyed sharing Saturday breakfasts with a close-knit group of friends, creating many memories.
Ole passionately cheered for the Iowa Hawkeyes and all of Minnesota’s sports teams. He found joy in gardening, yard work, baking, and engaging in lively conversations in his leisure time.
Ole is survived by his children: Lana Wymore (Eric); Joel Solomonson (Dana); and Sara Messerli (Craig Lesterson); his grandchildren: James, Cate, Cassie, Peter, Dylan, Philip and Hunter; his siblings: Betty (Wesley) Luggar; Joan (Tom) Anderson; Roger (Cynthia) Solomonson; and Ronald (Jan) Solomonson; sister-in-law, Donna Solomonson; JoAnn’s siblings: Candice (Monte) Ryan, Russ (Allison) Appel, and sister-in-law Deborah Appel; as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. Ole was fortunate to spend the last year of his life enjoying the companionship of his special friend, Renae Lindala.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, JoAnn; his grandson, Colin Messerli; his brother, Edward Solomonson; and brother-in-law, Mike Appel.