Tonia Michelle Braaten Olson, 55

Tonia Michelle Braaten Olson, age 55, passed away peacefully at her home in Gig Harbor, Washington, on September 12, 2025, after a courageous 19-year battle with breast cancer.

Born in Bowman, North Dakota, Tonia was the oldest of five children of Terry and Leslie Braaten. From an early age, she was outgoing, adventurous, and artistic—a natural friend to everyone she met. She graduated from Oak Harbor High School in 1988 and earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Western Washington University, all while raising her children as a single mother—a testament to her strength and determination.

In 1998, Tonia married her beloved “honey,” David Olson. David’s Navy career took their family on a seven-year journey overseas, where Tonia taught art in Department of Defense (DoDEA) schools and became a beloved educator to many. Together with their four children—Will, Travis, Ryan, and Kjersten—they embraced the adventure of travel, immersing themselves in the food, art, and culture of each new place.

After David’s retirement in 2005, the family settled in Gig Harbor, where Tonia paused her teaching career to focus on raising her children. She was a devoted and encouraging mother, always present at practices, performances, and games—cheering loudest and loving hardest.

Family was the heart of Tonia’s world. She cherished time outdoors with David, laughter-filled moments with her children, and deep bonds with her siblings — Kirsten, Tom, Rebecca, and Jessica. She welcomed her children’s spouses — Madeline, married to Will, and Skyler, married to Kjersten — loving them as her own. She embraced every role with joy: mother, aunt, cousin, friend, and, most recently, proud grandmother to her grandson, Xander. Her home was a haven for gatherings, filled with warmth, creativity, and fun.

Tonia’s life overflowed with beauty and purpose. Her artistic spirit led her to countless projects, and her impeccable eye for design filled her home with treasures. She had a remarkable green thumb and spent many contented hours gardening with David. In recent years, she cultivated a passion for growing flowers, creating vibrant garden beds and inviting loved ones to craft their own floral arrangements — a reflection of her generosity and love for shared experiences.

Tonia will be remembered as a woman of deep Christian faith whose kindness, joy, and thoughtfulness touched everyone she met. Her radiant energy made others feel welcomed, valued, and deeply loved. She faced her illness with grace and unwavering faith, living each day with courage and gratitude.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at her home in Gig Harbor, Washington. (Time and additional details to follow.)