Tonya Heidebrecht Olson

Tonya Ann “Toni” Heidebrecht Olson, 86, of McPherson, KS, peacefully passed away on Thursday, January 30, 2025, with family by her side at the Cedars Assisted Living, McPherson.

She was born March 15, 1938, in McPherson, KS, the daughter of William “Bill” Wayne and Ruth Isabel “Molly” (Rhoades) Kennedy. She graduated from McPherson High School in 1956. In 1964, she was united in marriage to Carmon R. Heidebrecht. They later divorced and on November 24, 2001, Tonya married Donald Gary Olson. He preceded Tonya in death on January 31, 2020.

Tonya was a Registered Nurse and very proud of her profession and accomplishments. She graduated from Wesley Hospital School of Nursing on July 14, 1959. Her career led her to McPherson Memorial Hospital; a few doctors in McPherson; the Director of Nursing for Northview Manor Nursing Home, and a hospice nurse at the beginning of hospice in McPherson. After she retired, she volunteered at McPherson Hospital for many years. The nurse in her carried over to her family and friends, as she was always concerned and caring for all of them. She treasured the memories of her mission trip to Ethiopia with the Presbyterian Church and often reminisced of that experience to whomever would listen. Another love was her little Chihuahua, Opal, whom she cared for until her health would not allow her to do so.

She was an only child, so being around her family on holidays and special occasions brought her great joy. Tonya was a spirited little lady, and her children knew when she meant business. Her grandchildren thought they were really tall when they matched her height, of barely 5 foot, and she would stand up beside them to always compare from the time before. When she found out your favorite snack, she would have 1 or 10 of that favorite snack waiting for you at your next visit!! She had a birthday book and would always give cash at Christmas and birthdays along with the words, “I hope it is the right size and the right color?” with a big smile on her face. She was also an avid fan of Kansas State University, mainly to support several of her family members who went to school there, and could often be seen wearing the color purple.

She loved the Lord and often talked about the list she was making with questions for Him. She is now home with her Lord, and we are sure her questions have been answered; and she is living her best life. We will miss her wisdom, her nurturing gestures, her witty humor, her giving attitude, and her hugs.

Tonya was a member of PEO Chapter AY, Wesley School of Nursing Alumni Association, Beta Omicron Sorority, Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Wichita Botanica, and McPherson Relay for Life.

She is survived by children, Becky (Delmar) Unruh of Galva, KS, J.J. “Jamie” (Debi) Heidebrecht of McPherson, KS, and Kerry (Pam) Heidebrecht of Racine, WI; step-son, Kirk Olson of Austin, TX; eight grandchildren, LaTisha (Justin) Brown, Tyler (Jeanette) Unruh, Holli (Chad) Bird, Hanna (Doug) Sommers, Heidi (Grant) Tevis, Kennedy (Tia) Heidebrecht, Rilea Heidebrecht, and Kolton Heidebrecht; and seven great-grandchildren, Preston, Elyse, Connor, Wyatt, Emma, Ava, and Quinn.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Donald Olson; and step-daughter, Dana Olson.

The memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM, Saturday, March 1, 2025, at Stockham Family Funeral Home with Rev. Sue Seel officiating. The family will receive friends from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM Saturday at the funeral home. The final resting place will be at McPherson Cemetery.  To view a live stream broadcast of the service, PLEASE CLICK HERE.

Memorial donations can be made to PEO Chapter AY or McPherson Animal Shelter in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.