Marilyn J. Trotter Olson

Marilyn Jeanette Trotter Olson, 92, formerly of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully after a long and blessed life, on December 21, 2024, in Anthem, Arizona, where she and her husband of 61 years, USAF Col. (Retired) James R. Olson, settled in 2000.

A candlelight memorial service will be conducted on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Veterans Memorial in the Anthem Community Park in Anthem, Arizona. Burial will take place later in the Spring of 2025 in Des Moines, with interment at Glendale Cemetery with her beloved husband. The gravesite is located near the westernmost North-South road in the cemetery.

Marilyn was born Marilyn Jeanette Trotter on April 17, 1932, in Des Moines to Henry L. (Pete) Trotter and Lois Mary Clark Trotter. Marilyn graduated from East High School in 1950. Later, she completed her business education at the American Institute of Business (AIB) and was a member of the Nu Phi Mu business sorority. During her business career, she held a number of positions.

After a 4-year courtship, in 1953, Marilyn married the love of her life, James R. Olson, upon his graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis, MD. While Jim served a full career as a pilot and Commander in the U.S. Air Force, Marilyn fully supported his mission as a dedicated military spouse while keeping the home fires burning and raising their three daughters, traveling extensively as a family across the United States and many foreign countries. They were separated only when the needs of the service dictated. Marilyn was well-known for her generous hospitality, gourmet cooking, and community involvement, extending warmth and kindness to all she came in contact with. Twice, she and her daughters returned to live in Des Moines while Jim was on isolated tours. They retired first to the Orlando, Florida area where they delighted in hosting family and friends on many vacations, giving their grandchildren unforgettable Disney memories. After Jim and Marilyn retired again to Arizona, they helped start the Anthem Senior Go-getters and Marilyn formed a Red Hat chapter of which she became the Queen Mother. She loved playing bridge, dressing up and celebrating life with friends and family. After being a long-time member of the United Methodist Church, she began attending Arizona Hills Church of Anthem in 2000 for many years. In her last days, she was surrounded by loving friends and caregivers at the Anthem Senior Sanctuary. Her family extends deep appreciation to all who brought joy and friendship into her life.

Marilyn is survived by three daughters: Victoria Salmon (Will), Fairbanks, Alaska; Denise Staten, The Woodlands, Texas; and Michelle Colaiacovo (John), Anthem. Additionally, she leaves nine grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, one great great-grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.


Marilyn was preceded in death by her husband Jim, parents Henry L. Trotter and Lois Trotter Noel, brother Ron Trotter, maternal grandparents Bert and Alma Clark, paternal grandparents Henry and Martha Trotter, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Her heritage included Scandinavian and British roots along with direct lineage to Mayflower elder William Brewster.

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