Mel was born on February 3, 1935, in Dassel, Minnesota, to Henry and Ruth Shaleen. After losing both parents at a young age, Mel was adopted at age three by Carl Olson, a relative, and his wife, Margaret. He was raised in the countryside near Osseo, Minnesota.
Mel met Elaine Barclay as teenagers at Soul’s Harbor Church youth group, and they were married on August 26, 1955. For most of his career, Mel was employed by CW Transport as a truck driver.
Mel was a man who believed in helping others. Whether he was helping build a church or lending his skills to a friend or neighbor, he was generous with his time and talents and never hesitated when someone needed a hand. A talented tradesman, Mel built and remodeled many of the homes his family lived in over the years.
Mel had a deep and abiding faith and was a long-time member of the Methodist Church in North Branch, Minnesota. Mel and Elaine shared a love of travel and adventure throughout their marriage. They explored places near and far, traveling across the United States and Europe, taking countless road trips, and spending more than 23 winters in the warmth of Arizona.
Above all, Mel was a proud and devoted father who took great joy in his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 71 years, Elaine; his children, Kathryn Robbins, Jerald Olson, Randall (Karen) Olson, Sherilyn Mathes, and Jacklyn Berwald; 10 grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; his sister, Ruth; and many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him dearly.
Mel was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Dewey, his sister Alice, two infant children, Patricia and Karen, and granddaughter Shaleen.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, at Gearhart Funeral Home, 11275 Foley Blvd NW, Coon Rapids. Visitation at 2 pm, service at 2:30 pm, and luncheon to follow. Private Inurnment will take place at Glen Haven Cemetery in Crystal, MN.
“His steady hands and quiet love built the foundation of our lives. Rest in peace, Dad.”
