Lt. Col. Robert H. Olson

East Lansing

Passed away October 23, 2014 at the age of 86.

Dr. Olson was born March 30, 1928 in Biwabik, MN to Arthur George and Lorraine (Salmon) Olson.

He served his country in the US Air Force for over 30 years, retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. He also opened a private optometric practice in Petoskey and during that time served as the liaison officer who recruited students in Northern Michigan for the Air Force Academy. After twenty-five years, he sold his practice and then sailed the Bahamas for a year. After his sailing adventure he moved to East Lansing and became the Chief of Optometry for the Blue Care Network health centers in the area. A man of many talents, he was an artist who loved painting, sailing, golf, tennis, and playing the saxophone. He also enjoyed traveling.

Robert is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Bill Olson.

Surviving is his wife, Sue Safir; sons Jeff (Lynnette) Olson of Petoskey, Dave (Jenniffer) Olson of Newport News, VA and Joel Safir of Royal Oak; and four grandchildren.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, November 9 at Congregation Shaarey Zedek at 2:00 p.m.

Contributions in his memory may be made to Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 1924 Coolidge Rd., East Lansing, MI 48823 or Sparrow Hospice House of Mid-Michigan, P. O. Box 30480, Lansing, MI 48915.

The family is being served by Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, East Lansing Chapel. On-line condolences may be made at www.greastlansing.com