Rhean Harker Griffin Olson

We would have liked to keep this angel on earth forever, but Rhean Harker Griffin Olson was called home the morning of April 28th, 2026, at the age of 98.

Rhean was born in Cardston, Alberta, Canada on November 26th, 1927, to Clara Vilate Brown and Elmer Harker. When she was five years old, the sudden death of her mother changed her life’s trajectory as she and her older brother were brought to live with grandparents and then aunts and uncles. While her father worked and tried to rebuild after the devastating loss, these extended family members became beloved caretakers over the next ten years, and she came to view cousins like siblings. It was this time between houses and cities and relatives that taught her the meaning of goodness and unconditional love, which became a cornerstone of her life. She knew how to shine her light on anyone who walked into the room and show genuine delight at their presence. All who knew Rhean felt wholly loved by her.

While she was in her early teens, her father married his late wife’s sister, whom they all continued to call Aunt Eva, and the family moved to California where she became reacquainted with her own sister, who had been a baby at the time of her mother’s death. This sister inspired a boldness in Rhean and set an incredible example of resilience for her; Rhean often said Dorothy Ann was one of the best gifts she’d ever received.

On August 17th, 1953, she married Keith Griffin after an on-again, off-again courtship that included his impulsive invite for her to join him in Germany where he was stationed during the Korean War—“come over here, marry me, and we will have a wonderful time!” She adored his sense of humor, and though she did not go to Germany, she did find him irresistible when he returned. While there would be several hardships ahead, including his early and unexpected passing in 1977, she cherished their time together.

As a mother, Rhean lived an exemplary life that her children admired. She was dedicated to their well-being and devoted to creating happy memories for them, even when times were hard. She was a keen observer, a quick defender, and loving supporter. She also had learned through the experience of having several mothers and aunts herself how to tell it like it is—her children would turn to her often for guidance well into their adult lives.

As her children began to have children of their own, she once again followed her heart and married Vernon Olson, who had a talent for making her laugh. This later-in-life union came with several bonus family members (Vern’s adult children, grandchildren, and nephew) that she welcomed in her signature style, making them feel at home and very loved.

Rhean was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and throughout her life she held various callings in the church. She and Vern were called to serve two Temple missions: one in Atlanta, Georgia and years later to Johannesburg, South Africa, where she truly embraced the culture of the people and shared her love of the Savior with all those she served with, and with countless others.

It is hard to sum up a life where so much of it is lived actively in creating spaces for others to shine and to feel love. Rhean spoke openly about her own self doubt and her struggles with depression, but she always found ways to lift up the hearts and spirits of those around her, and find ways to share her healing journey and testimony. Even in writing her life’s story, her diary pages are filled with the triumphs and tales of her parents, siblings, cousins, grandchildren, children, and friends, which is what truly brought her joy. To have known her is to have been part of her happiness.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Clara Vilate Brown; step-mothers (Aunt) Eva Brown and (Aunt) Lisadore Brown Crookston; father, Elmer Harker; husband, Keith Merl Griffin; grandbabies, Marjorie Dawn Griffin and Brian Keith Borup; siblings, Reed Harker and Dorothy Ann Bramhall; second husband, Vernon Mark Olson; stepson, Mark James Olson; stepson-in-law, Terry Webb; and son, Mark James Griffin.

She is survived by her children: Greg (Susan) Griffin, Kati Griffin, and Jenny (Marlon) Borup; her step-children: Cherie (Dale) Portie, Jeannine (Mike) Bingham, Kristie Webb, and Wendie (Doug) Day; 27 grandchildren; 61 great-grandchildren; and 7 great-great-grandchildren.

Our family will be forever grateful to the loving staff at The Abbington of Layton, as well as her dear friends and tablemates. A special thanks to Aspire Home Health & Hospice staff and dear Norma, who provided tender love and care each day these last many months.

A service will be held Friday, May 15th at 11am at the Kays Ward Chapel at 925 Deseret Dr, Kaysville, UT 84037, with a viewing at the same location from 9:30am-10:30am. Interment will be at the Salt Lake City Cemetery. The ward will stream the service live and a link will be posted here once available.