R. Donald "Don" Olson

Don Olson was born to Edna Cora Taylor Olson and Russell Vernon Olson on April 26, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Don’s parents were transferred to Houston when Don was in elementary school. Don graduated from Dulles High School, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class. Don went to the University of Houston, where he received his Bachelor of Science and his Master’s.

After obtaining his Master’s, he was offered a job as a geologist from 3 different oil and gas companies, but chose Gulf Oil since he would be able to stay in Houston. After reporting to work, he was immediately transferred to Columbia, Mississippi. Due to housing limitations in Columbia, Don met John Skrla, who offered to have Don be his roommate. John would become his best friend. Don’s and John’s love for muscle cars cemented their relationship.

Don would stay in the oil and gas industry as a geologist, working for Gulf Oil, Houston Natural Gas, Columbia Gas, and Tema Oil and Gas Company.

In 1979, Don and Marty Swenson were married. They had four-legged children, Sullivan and King for 14 years (dogs), and then Snowflake and Squeaky for the past 13 years (cats), plus several others.

A graveside service will be held on August 23, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Forest Park Westheimer Funeral Home and Cemetery, located at 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077, US. For all attending, please gather in the lobby of the funeral home and wait for further parking instructions.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Christian Community Service Center, 3434 Branard St., Houston, Texas 77027, or a charity of your choice.