Gary T Olson

Gary Olson was born February 8,1950 in Chicago, Illinois. He was born to the parents of Ralph

Olson and Katherine Hardt. After receiving his high school diploma, he began working for United

Airlines as a ramp serviceman. He then moved to California, continuing to work for United in his

former title. Gary worked for United from the years 1969-2005. In the year 1994, Gary met

Robin Grief and the two of them fell in love fairly quickly. Although Gary was a bit older than

Robin, they shared many common interests, including a fairly wicked and mischievous sense of

humor. They married in 2001 and enjoyed the most beautiful life together. After Gary’s

retirement in 2005, Gary and Robin moved to Arizona where they shared many beautiful

adventures. This includes raising three marvelous dogs, meeting wonderful new friends and

genuinely living life to the fullest.

Gary Olson was a man known country wide for his outstanding, genuine and loyal personality.

Those who knew him, felt nothing but warm and welcomed in his presence. There wasn’t a

person alive who didn’t know the kindness of Gary Olson. He was known to make anyone feel

heard and respected. From the local gas station attendant, to his Wednesday book club, one

could feel nothing but love coming from Gary Olson. Those who knew him best, would

characterize Gary as absolutely hilarious, charming and awe-inspiring.

Some examples of Gary’s humor include conducting magic tricks for children of his friends,

convincing them he could pull his thumb off. Moreover, Gary, being recognized as a “dog

whisper” could be seen training the local neighborhood dogs new tricks. Although his kind

demeanor may have painted him as a mere saint, Gary Olson also had a “wild side.” His

outlandish jokes and love of motorcycles and all things automobile, made him the coolest man

in any bar he walked into.

His artistic abilities were also widely discussed amongst his peers. His father taught him to paint

at a young age, and from there his love to draw and paint only grew. Many friends and family

constantly praised his talents and even asked them to paint children's rooms, garages,

motorcycles, cars and restaurants alike.

There are many other characteristics one could appertain to Gary Olson, however there is not

enough room on a page to explain just how beautiful of man he truly was. One simply cannot

describe just how many lives were touched by this man, and in truth, we may never know just

how many people Gary Olson befriended. What we do know is that Gary Olson was a legend

among men and left this earth knowing he was loved. He is survived by his wife, Robin Olson,

their dog, Sadie, and numerous nieces and nephews including Tracy Houssni and Natalie

McGovern who will continue to carry on his legacy for as long as they shall live.

Tracy

It’s hard to say goodbye to someone who meant so much to me and to everyone who knew him. He made a big difference in my life in so many small ways—through the things he said and did, often without even realizing it.

Because of him, I found my love for cars, my interest in tattoos, my joy in traveling, and my appreciation for art. He inspired me in ways I never told him, and I will always be grateful for that.

One of the things I regret is not telling him just how much he meant to me—how his kindness, wisdom, and quiet strength contributed to my life in ways I’m still uncovering. I wish he had known how treasured he was, how much he was loved and respected not only by me but by everyone fortunate enough to know him.

I’m especially thankful for the way he influenced my boys. The positive impact he had on them is something I will always cherish. Though he’s no longer here, his love and lessons will live on in us.

Uncle Gary, you were loved more than you may have realized, and you will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Adam

Uncle Gary Olson was a truly funny and inspiring person who had a huge impact on my life. He always pushed me to explore different sides of myself and explore new ideas. His encouragement made me continue to grow my art and pushed me to be more like him. His humor drew in everyone he met and inspired many like me.

Yusef

Uncle Gary was always the fun uncle. Every interaction I had with him was lighthearted and goofy. He was always interested in what I was doing and what my hobbies were and as I’ve grown up, I have taken up a lot of the hobbies that he was interested in. His impact on my life was huge. He is going to be missed dearly and will always be in my thoughts.