Southborough – Elaine (LaPerle) Olson, 83, of Southborough, passed away unexpectedly and peacefully Nov. 24, 2018 while enjoying the holiday weekend with family. She was the beloved wife of the late Sherman V. Olson, who died in 2012.
She was born and raised in Gilbertville by William “Pépé Billy” and Lillian “Mémé” Bordeau LaPerle. Early in Elaine’s life, her capacity for love and caregiving became apparent when she chose to forgo furthering her college education in order to care for her ailing mother. This experience became the template for Elaine’s life. Her husband, Sherman, was grateful for the depth of her love and dedication. A fundamental supporter of her husband’s entrepreneurial vision, they worked in tandem to build a successful business while also raising two daughters.
Elaine’s energy, passion and love of life was shown in her many pursuits, including travel, history and artistic endeavors. Her enduring faith provided her with comfort, strength and grace which inspired her generosity. She had an enthusiasm that was by demonstrated by her lifelong support of the Catholic Church and its affiliates.
Elaine will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by her daughters, Suzanne Matthews and Dana Olson and her husband John Wright; her three grandchildren, Brianna, Shannon and Lilah Matthews; and their father, Tom Matthews, all of whom live in Jackson, Wyoming.
The family will greet visitors Friday, Nov. 30, from 4-7 p.m., at Morris Funeral Home, 40 Main St., Southborough. A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 1, at 10 a.m., at St. Anne Church, 20 Boston Rd., Southborough.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the parish that inspired Elaine’s religious journey, St. Aloysius Church, 58 Church St., Gilbertville, MA 01031, or to St. Anne Church, 20 Boston Rd., Southborough, MA 01772.
At 83, Elaine began kayaking. May we all live life with the same gusto!
To leave words of condolence to the family, please visit www.morrisSouthboroughfuneral.com.
