Paul was born in Chicago, Illinois to Geneva (Griswold) Olson and Ragnar Olson on January 22, 1948. He attended high school in Chillicothe, Illinois. Paul graduated from Southern Illinois University.
Paul worked for over 30 years as a Civil Engineer at the Illinois Department of Transportation. He retired in 2002. An avid gardener and master woodworker, who took joy in designing, building, and bestowing his work to family and friends.
Paul is preceded in death by his mother and father.
Paul is survived by his daughter Julie (DJ) Griffin and grandchildren Madeline and Eliot Griffin all of Clayton, NC. He is also survived by his four-legged friend of 12 years, Molly.
A memorial service will be held at a later date on the Illinois River where Paul spent much of his time.
