Ronald Merle Olson

Ronald Merle Olson, 76, of Marysville, passed away peacefully at him home surrounded by his family on December 1, 2015. He had been fighting a short battle with brain cancer. He was born March 24, 1939 in Sharon, North Dakota to Eber and Dorothy Olson.

Ron moved from North Dakota at the age of nine to Bremerton, Washington. He graduated in 1958 from East Bremerton High where he was a standout on the basketball court. He continued his passion for the game playing at both Olympic College and then receiving a scholarship to play at Idaho State University.

Ron was drafted into the army in 1961 and married the love of his life Jo on December 28, 1962 while home on leave. They spent the beginning stages of their marriage in Oklahoma before being deployed to Germany. Ron and Jo spent many years travelling around Germany/Europe before Ron was honorably discharged in 1964. Upon returning home they settled in Tacoma, WA before spending the last 48 years in Marysville. His love of people and cars led him to his prosperous 30 years as a Finance Manager in the car business. He leaves behind his wife of 53 years, three daughters Greta Stevens, (Lisa), Krista Jones (Ben) and Erika Olson, four grandchildren Taylor Stevens, Lucas Stevens (Sarah), Maddison Stevens, and Alexis Geiger. His sister Pat Wallace, mother-in law Peggy Tarbell, brother-in law’s Bob Welborn (Deanna) and Bill Welborn (Judy) and numerous nieces and nephews.

Ron’s obsession with any sport was evident in his dedication to support his children and grandchildren’s athletic endeavors. He was often referred to as “grandpa’s taxi.” Golf was Ron’s therapy and he enjoyed playing with his golfing buddies. He had many memorable family vacations and loved going to the Oregon Coast on many occasions with his wife. He took great pride in his yard and welcomed his many friends who listened to his many hilarious stories. He was the Patriarch of his family. He will be deeply missed and will see you again on heavens hardwoods!

We want to thank Hospice of Snohomish County for helping us to take care of our Ron during this most difficult time, they were the best.

There will be an Open House, “Celebration of Life” at our home, Sunday December 13, 2015 from 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm; 5219 134th PL NE Marysville, WA. Come and help us celebrate Ron’s life.