Carl "Kenny" Olson

When someone is identified as a natural leader, certain images come to mind. First thoughts are of a no-nonsense, tough-minded, dedicated and disciplined person. This description accurately fits Carl "Kenny" Olson who was indeed a born manager. He will be remembered as being highly organized, practical and realistic. He was a person who always carried a strong sense of duty with him throughout his life. Possessed with traditional “old school” morals, Kenny was an individual who clearly communicated to those around him just who he was and what he was all about. Everyone acquainted with Ken knew him as a well-respected man who was responsible and reliable.

Kenny was born on February 28, 1930 at home on his family's farm in Gorin, MO. His parents were Carl and Opal Olson. Ken was raised in Fairmont, MO with an older sister, Mary Frances and one younger sister, Pat. Even as a youngster, known as Bud back home, Ken learned to be objective and decisive. His faith in the principles of authority and dependability was something that he carried with him throughout his life.

Ken's matter-of-fact attitude about most things was developed during his childhood. As a young boy, Ken enjoyed being part of teams, and organizations and groups of other kids who shared similar interests. Ken took part in basketball.

Ken enjoyed his school days. He sought to achieve perfect attendance in all of his classes. A logical and focused thinker, Ken was always good at following directions and meeting his schedules, whether they were set by his teachers or were self-imposed. Kenny’s personal motto could well have been, “Do it right the first time.” He graduated from Wyaconda High School in 1947. He enjoyed some courses more than others, having favorite classes and teachers. His favorite classes in high school were history and spelling.

An objective and conscientious individual, Ken reveled in the security of his family. One of Ken’s most endearing qualities was his uncanny ability to remember important dates and anniversaries, and his unending enthusiasm for organizing a celebration for his family and friends.

Ken was ever watchful of his children. He worried about them and was deeply concerned for their development as they grew up. He maintained a firm hand in their upbringing. He also had the ability to enforce the rules as needed to ensure that his children were properly raised. Ken was blessed with four daughters, Cheryl, Robin, Joyce and Janet. They were also blessed with five grandchildren; Lara, Larry, Michael, Bret, Daniel.

Being a hard worker who praised efficiency, Ken was always striving to make improvements where they were necessary. He was able to analyze situations and problems, keeping everything and everyone on track. An excellent project supervisor, Ken was a person who could quickly make decisions based on the information available. He worked with a great staff and encouraged them to do their best. One of Kenny's favorite sayings was "If you're late, it just means you didn't start early enough!". His primary occupation was Director of Communications. He was employed for 34 years by The Daily Racing Forum. Ken was a team player who certainly lived out the motto of “give me a job, and I will get it done.” He believed in working hard and never missed a paycheck from the time he went to work at the age of 17 until his retirement.

Ken's favorite pursuits were spending time with friends and family. He enjoyed having friends over with the family for barbeques on Sunday afternoons.

Playing by the rules was a natural thing for Ken to do in life and that carried over to his enjoyment of sports. In high school, Ken played basketball. Recreational sports included softball, jai lai, bowling and golf. He was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching his favorite teams, the Steelers, Dodgers and Celtics, whenever he got the opportunity. Top sports on his list were horse racing, football, baseball and basketball.

A civic-minded person, Ken was usually ready to jump in and help with community activities. He was the type of person who could masterfully organize events and projects and then see to it that they were run in an efficient and timely manner. Politically, Ken was involved with local politics in Forest Park. During these years, Ken worked for campaigns and assisted residents to the polls on election days. He was also President of the Forest Park Oktoberfest for two years.

When vacation time came, Ken and his family always went back home to family, either in Missouri or Wisconsin, where Rita is from. When his kids were grown, he and Rita went to many different places in the U.S. and Europe. Favorite vacations included Hawaii and Germany.

Ken was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of Ken’s favorites was Misty, a fox terrier. They were best friends for fourteen years.

When Kenny’s retirement finally arrived in 1993, he was well prepared. His new life involved relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada. In retirement, he found pleasure in golfing and cooking. He and Rita played golf frequently at the municipal course. He often cooked or baked foods for his family and friends. In many ways, Ken loved retirement. He said, "I can always find something to do but I'm sure not going back to work!".

Ken passed away on October 6, 2011 at his home. He is preceded in death by his daughter, Cheryl. He is survived by his wife Rita; his children Robin, Joyce, and Janet; his grandchildren Lara, Larry, Michael and Bret; his sister, Pat; his niece, Debbie; and his nephew, Doug. Services were held at Palm Mortuary - Northwest. Ken was laid to rest in the Eternal Life Garden II at Palm Northwest, Las Vegas, NV.

All who knew him would agree that Kenny lived his life with his feet firmly on the ground. He had a strong work ethic and was pragmatic in his thoughts and acts. He was willing to share his ideas and knowledge for the benefit of others even if it came with a heated discussion. Ken loved to argue! Carl "Kenny" Olson made an impact on his family, friends, loved ones, co-workers, and everyone whose life he touched.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Northwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.