Carl Wayne Olson

Most family and friends knew him as Wayne. Wayne was born on March 10, 1935, in Anderson, SC to parents – Axel Carl Olson (Kane, PA) and Minnie Florence Jones Olson (Tiger, GA). While Wayne’s childhood began in Anderson, his family moved to Suches, GA and areas around Union County. Wayne would spend his later years back in Suches until coming to live with his daughters in Lithia Springs.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Jean Buchanan Tritt, Bonnie Holloway, and Barbara Watts. Wayne also lost his oldest daughter, Melissa Ellen Olson, on March 9, 2025.

Wayne is survived by his ex-wife, Fay Olson-Pinkard (Gary Pinkard), who he was married to for almost 39 years. Wayne and Fay raised 7 children together in Lithia Springs, GA. Wayne’s surviving grown children include Carl Olson (Shirley), Kari Ballestracci (Kelly), Dodi Olson, Tobey Olson (Dan Frey), Joseph Olson (LeAnne), and Jesse Olson. Wayne also has 10 grandchildren, many great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.

After a mischievous action in his young adult years, Wayne joined the Army with the influence from his father. He served 11 years in the military and was a certified helicopter mechanic and ranked as a Staff Sergeant. He served in both the 82nd and 101st Airborne Division while stationed at Fort Campbell, Ky.

Wayne became a Sheet Metal Worker and retired with the Sheet Metal Local 85 Union in Georgia. He worked for RF Knox for much of his career and spent time with Action Electrical and Mechanical Contractors as well. He remained an active member of Local 85 until his death.

Wayne loved flying and became a flight instructor of single engine aircrafts. He proudly maintained his instructor license even up until his death.

Wayne had numerous adventures including some life threatening and dangerous. He was a survivor of a mass demonstration parachute jump in 1958 that led to many fellow servicemen injured and 5 who lost their lives. Wayne survived a plane crash with multiple injuries and a planned parachute jump when he turned 50 that led to a broken back. Most honorably, he survived raising 7 children with one bathroom!

Wayne enjoyed telling tales of his youth, his time in Japan, the Atlanta Braves, flying, and a good meal. He always cleaned his plate!

Kari and Kelly Ballestracci will host a memorial gathering for Wayne on Saturday, July 12, 2025, from noon until 7 pm. Please call Dodi Olson at 770-877-0227 for the address.