Michael Rae Olson

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mike sadly announces his passing at the age of 71. Mike passed peacefully on Wednesday February 11th, 2026 at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital surrounded by his family.

Mike is predeceased by his grandparents, parents, brothers Jerry and Barry (Oscar) and several aunts and uncles. Mike is survived by seven remaining siblings: Terry (Diane), Dennis (Bernice), Butch (Irene), Gail, Shelley (Gregg), Brian, and Joan (Rod). Mike had such a loving relationship with all his nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Mike was born and raised in Kenora, Ontario. Throughout his education he attended King George, Evergreen, and Beaver Brae Secondary School. Mike had a very long and heroic journey battling multiple health issues over the years. Despite the many hardships Mike endured, his will to live never diminished.

Mike had a long career with the Ministry of Natural Resources in a variety of roles. While at the Ministry, his primary role was Fire Control. Mike appreciated being able to travel across Canada with his career. Mike’s time with the Ministry can be honoured by the invaluable friendships he created along the way with his work colleagues and friends; many of which Mike remained in close contact with throughout his life.

Mike’s later years then lead him to pursue less demanding work. He finished his working career by splitting his time between North American Lumber and Energy Tech.

While growing up, Mike chose a simple life. Regardless of being surrounded by family or friends, snow or sun, his priorities remained as hunting and fishing. Winter was for hockey, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Mike loved being outdoors. In his younger years he guided at “Hank and Dab’s” family tourist camp at Dryberry Lake. At camp, Mike lived his best life while honing his guiding skills. He loved being in the boat all day while tourists swapped stories, laughed, and shared (a few) cold brews on the warm summer days.

While waiting for the moose to show up in the creek, Mike was honoured to spend this time surrounded by his brothers and friends out at the family camp.

Like all the other Lakeside boys in the minor hockey league, Mike spent many hours at the Lakeside Rink. As an adult, Mike played in the Kenora-Keewatin Commercial Hockey League and the “Ministry Fire” teams. Notably, Mike’s favourite team throughout his hockey career remained the “Olson Canadians” senior team.

One of Mike’s most honourable achievements were the relationships he built with his nieces and nephews. Mike believed these relationships were some of his greatest personal achievements in his life. He selflessly committed himself to ensuring all his “little buddies” were able to benefit from his wisdom and his sense of humour. His “little buddies” will always adore and cherish their “Uncle Beers”.

Mike’s legacy will forever be defined by his unrelented will and resiliency. His determination to live his life to the best of his ability will be remembered forever. It is an understatement in saying Mike’s kind and generous spirit will be missed profoundly by all.

Cremation will take place through Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Mike’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, LOW District Hospital, or the Canadian War Amps Society.

Mike's wishes were to have no service.