Clifford Ray Olson

He was born on February 3, 1943, one of 3 children to Lyle and Wilma (Greer) Olson in Yankton, South Dakota. He lived there until he was 12, then he lived in Anaheim, California, where he finished high school. Cliff worked at Disneyland, where he was a photographer, a character, and even met Walt Disney. He joined the army in 1963, serving honorably until his discharge in 1967. He married Sheryl Hampton on June 18, 1966, and they had 2 children together.

At the age of 44, Cliff went back to college and received his bachelor’s degree with a 4.0 GPA in finance in 1991. He studied for his masters degree, but decided he didn’t really need it. He worked as CFO for mark Nelson Oil Company, served as the president of OPMA, and worked with the state legislation for the petroleum industry. He also worked for Golden Valley Farms, and assisted in getting their computer system set up for controlling shipments o compressed hay to Japan.

After retirement, his longing to serve the Lord was very strong. An opportunity arose to volunteer for WFR- Young Life for the Maintenance department. He accepted this job for the Lord, and continued working until his stroke on August 31, at the age of 73.

Cliff loved his motorcycle rides. He toured through Canada, Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico and Arizona. Cliff was many things to many people, but most importantly, his greates achievement was being the most loving husband, father, and grandfather anyone could ask for. He will be dearly missed, and always loved.

Cliff is survived by his wife, Sheri; son, Martin Olson; daughter, Christine Doughty; grandchildren Cameron, Kaeley, Isaac, Addi, Lilli, Zeke; brother, Jan; sister, Becky; nephews, Duane, Jeff and nieces Carri and Brandy.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 26, at 2 pm at Young’s Funeral Home. Young’s Funeral Home was entrusted with arrangements.