RAPID CITY--Frances Edna Paulson, born October 8, 1918 to George and Jennie Paulson, left this world to join the love of her life, Albert Olenberger, on September 25, 2008. Frances primary focus in life was her family. She was a devoted mother and strong advocate for her children and grandchildren. She was also a loving and supportive wife who enjoyed the many life long friends she and Al made through Als work with Otter Tail Power and the North Dakota American Legion. Through their many years of active affiliation with the American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary, they treasured the travel, the experiences and the memories. Even though Frances fell victim to Alzheimers the last several years of her life, she continued to delight in visits from her children and, especially her grandchildren. Frances Paulson married Albert Olenberger October 21, 1942 in Harvey, ND. Following their marriage, Frances and Albert began their life together in Camp Claibourne, Louisiana. On December 7, 1942, after only six weeks of marriage, Albert left for the south Pacific and Frances did not see him for two years. Once reunited after the war, they worked hard in various jobs until Al secured a job with Otter Tail Power Company. It was during this time that they started their family. Als job took them to McVille, ND in 1958 where they remained until their retirement in 1981. Frances worked at the McVille Hospital, first as a nurses aid then transferring into the administrative department where she worked with insurance claims. Frances had many stories to tell about her growing up years with her seven brothers and sisters but she most delighted in the stories of her escapades as the pianist in her brothers band called the Pepper Shooters and going to dances with sisters Lilas & Lillian. Many of her favorite stories about her and Al revolved around their many visits to see their children in various parts of this country and the world. Even though the roles reversed after she was diagnosed with Alzheimers, the love and admiration she felt for Al was ever present. He was her best friend, her confidant, and ultimately, her caregiver. Frances was a conscientious employee, a loyal friend, a meticulous housekeeper and a wonderful cook; but most of all she was a caring, loving wife and mother. She exemplified kindness and compassion. Frances is survived by her one sister and best friend, Lilas Eide, Grand Junction, CO; her three children, Douglas and partner Chan-Shin Jung, Seattle, WA; Scott and wife Ailsa, Devils Lake, ND; Janell and husband George, Rapid City, SD; three granddaughters, Christine (Olenberger) Peterson and husband Jay; Jenny Jewett Lund and husband Cameron; Emily Jewett and husband Stephen Poff; one great-granddaughter, Lily Peterson. She was preceded in death by her husband of sixty-three years, Albert Olenberger; an infant child; her parents, George and Jennie Paulson; one sister, Lillian; and five brothers, Glenn, Melvin, Lyle, George and Fritz. The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation for the loving care given to her by her extended family at Clarkson Mt. View Nursing Home, Dr. Huot and his staff, the Hospice team and her guardian angel, Barbara Wenk. Even though Alzheimers stole her memory, it never robbed her of her beautiful smile and her contagious giggle. We will carry that delightful sound in our hearts forever. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 29, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home with Pastor Dwight Stensgaard officiating. Inurnment for both Edna and Al will take place at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 1, at the North Dakota Veteran Cemetery in Mandan. In lieu of flowers, a memorial benefiting elder care has been established. Memorials may be sent to Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home, Rapid City, SD