Beloved Husband, Father, and Grandfather Don Olson passed away on February 12th at the age of 86.
He was surrounded by family, as he had been in the days preceding his death. He is survived by his devoted wife of 56 years Joyce (Reilley) Olson, son Donald (Teresa Friedsam) Olson and daughter Denise (Mike) Weber as well as grandchildren Tony (Katie) Olson, and Nathaniel and Brendan Weber. He is also mourned by sister Marge and brother Richard. He is met in heaven by his parents Oscar and Margaret, brothers Arvid and Howard as well as sisters Carole and Ruth.
Donald leaves behind a legacy of love and fond memories that will be cherished by his numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws, extended family and countless others he considered family. He was always ready to greet you with a huge Minnesota hug.
Many of our fondest memories of Donald revolve around a deck of cards, as he was always ready for a game of Cribbage, 500, Bridge, or Poker. Several of his final visitors were able to partake in one (or more) of these with Don and we hold these cherished memories of love and laughter close to our hearts.
Donald Dean Olson was born on December 7, 1937, to Oscar and Margaret Olson. He was the 5th of 7 children with three older brothers (Arvid, Howard, and Richard), one older (Ruth) and two younger sisters (Marge and Carole). He graduated in 1955 from St. Cloud Technical High School before studying pre-engineering and mathematics at St. Cloud State and the University of Minnesota. He served in the US Army for two years before resuming his studies at Gale Institute.
On March 11, 1967, Donald married the love of his life, Joyce Reilley. Together, they welcomed their son DJ in 1970 and their daughter Denise in 1977. Donald was known for his warmth, humor, and endless supply of Dad jokes, endearing him to family and friends alike.
A celebration of Donald's life will be held at St. Philip's Lutheran Church, 6180 Hwy 65 NE, Fridley on Tuesday, March 19th, visitation will begin at 10:00 am followed by service at 11:00 am. Please join us in honoring his memory and sharing your cherished memories of Donald, as we rejoice in the privilege of having him be a part of our lives.
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