Dan Olson

Dan Lynn Olson, 79 years of age, passed away on Wednesday, July 31, 2024. Dan was born November 30, 1944, in Kingsburg, CA to the late Wallace and Patricia Olson. He was the middle of three children and sibling to older brother, Gary Olson and younger sister, Sherry Zander.

Dan married the love of his life Sandy Papaleo on August 15, 1964 in Fresno, CA; they were married for nearly 60 years. Together they raised two wonderful children, Tina Engelman and Brian Olson, creating a family with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

In 1969, Dan founded Dan Olson Racing Products where he built and tuned some of the fastest boats, cars, and parts in the world. His boundless love, dedication, and passion for the racing industry touched countless lives over his remarkable 55-year journey. Dan had numerous wins, set many records, and his career high light was winning the 1999 NHRA Top Fuel Championship with Tony Schumacher. He was inducted into the IHBA Hall of Fame in 2023 for all of his contributions to the drag boat racing world. In retirement Dan found joy traveling the country watching his grandson, Logan Engelman, participate in trap shooting events.

Dan is survived by his loving wife, Sandy; his children, Tina and her spouse Eric Engelman, and Brian and his spouse Melanie Olson; his grandchildren, Logan Engelman and his girlfriend Lexi Lanfranco, Mackenzie Engelman and her fiance Anthony Gonzalez, Olivia and Eden Olson; his sister, Sherry Zander; and many loving friends.

Dan is preceded in death by his parents Wallace and Patricia Olson, and brother Gary Olson.

A Celebration of Life in Dan's honor will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, from 11:00am to 3:00pm at Pardini's 2257 W Shaw Ave, Fresno, CA 93711.