Donald Oliver Olson, of Foxworth, Mississippi, passed away on Tuesday, June 13, 2023 at the age of 77. He was born in Devils Lake, North Dakota to Oliver and Alyce Olson and was raised in Barrett, Minnesota. After graduating from high school, Donald joined the U.S. Air Force in July of 1964 and served our country as security police in Vietnam. As Vietnam was winding down, he was discharged from the Air Force and worked in the Twin Cities for several years as a punch press operator and security guard. Missing military life, Donald joined the U.S. Navy as a cook giving him the opportunity to travel the world. He separated from the Navy in September of 1978 and for the next thirteen years worked as a chef on oil and drilling rigs. Settling in Marion County, he has been a resident of Foxworth since 1981. Donald lived life to the fullest. He was an amazing storyteller and was thrilled to share the stories of his travels and adventures. He enjoyed trivia and loved cooking to feed his family and friends. Donald was a man of faith who prayed daily for his family. He was so proud of his family and was known for his Christmas letters sharing about their lives. He had a great sense of humor and Donald will be remembered for his infectious laugh.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Joan Pavlish and Marie Richardson; and a son, Stephen Olson. Donald is survived by his wife, Carolyn Olson; three daughters, Dorrie Cooper, Cynthia Buchner, and Rebekah Olson; two sons, Michael Olson and Lane Olson; two brothers, Rob Olson and Jerry Olson; seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.
There will be a visitation for Donald at Colonial Funeral Home on Friday, June 23, 2023 from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm. The funeral service, officiated by Reverend Paul McRoy, will be in the funeral home chapel on Saturday, June 24, 2023 at 2:00pm. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00pm until service time.
