Andra Michelle (Iano) Olson

Andra Michelle Olson, 60, of Monticello, MN, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, surrounded by family.

Andra was born on November 17, 1965, to Tony and Sharon Iano. She spent her early years growing up in Des Moines, IA, and Lebanon, NJ, before her family settled in Monticello during her middle school years. She graduated from Monticello High School and went on to attend and graduate from Concordia University, St. Paul.

On September 5, 1987, Andra married the love of her life, Dan Olson. Together, they built a life and started their family in Monticello, where they created a home full of love, energy, and lasting memories.

Andra began her career at State Farm, where she built a strong professional foundation. It was through her growing passion and natural talent in mounted shooting that she found her true calling, eventually leading her to transition into entrepreneurship. Along the way, she co-founded AJ Horses, further deepening her involvement in the equestrian world. Andra went on to become a nationally recognized spokesperson for Colt Firearms, specializing in horse training, and developing a variety of sport-specific equestrian products manufactured out of her home. Through her drive and talent, Andra earned sponsorship from Colt Firearms, achieved the remarkable distinction of being a three-time world champion competitive mounted shooter, and was inducted into the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association (CMSA) Hall of Fame in 2018.

Andra lived out her Christian faith quietly, but powerfully—through the way she loved, welcomed, and showed up for others each day. Her magnetic spirit resulted in a home always full of kids, noise, and laughter, with doors that were never closed to anyone. She had a mischievous sense of humor and was always ready with a well-timed prank. Between pots of cowboy coffee and slices of pie at the kitchen table, she created a place where everyone felt like they belonged.

In 2014, on the way home from an equestrian event, Andra was hit by a drunk driver just one mile from her home—an event that changed her life forever. Through it all, she faced challenges with resilience and determination, continuing to inspire those around her with her strength.

Her spirit continued to shine brightly after her accident. With unwavering determination, she returned to the things she loved most. She rode horses with True Strides, embraced the thrill of downhill skiing through Courage Kenny, and spent time water skiing on Lake Pulaski.

Andra is survived by her loving husband, Dan Olson; her son, Michael (Gayle) Olson, and their children, Gordie and Marin; her daughter, Allie (Sam) Johnson, and their children, Stevie and Cam; her parents, Tony and Sharon Iano; her brother, Rick (Jan) Iano; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, from 4–7 p.m., with a prayer service to conclude, at Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Home in Monticello. A second visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 27, at Buffalo Covenant Church.

Services will be livestreamed at: Andra's Funeral Service

In honor of Andra, donations may be made to True Friends (designate “True Strides”), Courage Kenny (designate “Adaptive ski program”) or Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Peterson-Grimsmo Funeral Chapel of Monticello, MN. 763-295-2918. www.peterson-grimsmochapel.com.

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