John Harry Olson

Born on May 20, 1944, in Queens, New York to Marion and Harry Olson, both proud immigrated Americans. Raised in Cresskill, New Jersey, alongside his older sisters, Marion and Alice. John’s childhood was filled with curiosity, mechanical tinkering, and an early love for boating, inspired by his father’s own passion.

It was in Cresskill that John met the love of his life, Linda, in the second grade—beginning a remarkable relationship that would span more than 75 years. From a young age, John was industrious, dedicated, and exceptionally hard-working. At just 11, he took on a paper route and later spent his evenings working on cars while still in high school to help support his family. His natural technical talent blossomed over the years as he mastered everything from engines to complex electrical systems.

In 1962, John proudly entered the United States Air Force and was stationed in Indiana, where he served honorably. After his service, he pursued technical studies at the RCA Institute where he earned his associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering in 1968.

In October 1967, John married his childhood friend and lifelong sweetheart, Linda J. Olson. The couple soon settled in Horseheads, New York, where they began their family and welcomed their daughter, Kristin, and son, John. During this time, John worked as a technician at Sullivan Park Research in Corning, New York. Determined to further his education, he enrolled at Alfred University and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ceramic Engineering. He graduated cum laude and was inducted into the prestigious Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. Balancing the demands of full-time work and family life, John’s dedication and intellect led to the development and awarding of two U.S. patents in Glass Science.

John’s career and family journey later brought him to Newport News, Virginia, where he thrived both professionally and personally. A passionate boater, he continued to enjoy time on the water, sharing countless sailing adventures with his family on the waters of the Chesapeake. Professionally, John began a new chapter in the automotive industry with Bendix Automotive, where his technical expertise quickly stood out. In 1987, he was honored with the prestigious Bendix Chairman’s Award for Technical Excellence. As the facility transitioned through new ownerships, eventually becoming part of Siemens Automotive, John rose to plant leadership. Under his guidance, the plant earned national recognition in 1995, Industry Week named it one of the nation’s “Best Plants,” citing its commitment to workforce development, quality improvement, and organizational learning. John was often invited to speak at industry conferences and business meetings, frequently sharing insights on the company’s innovative “Pay for Knowledge” program, which empowered employees to advance through continued education. He also gave back to the community by serving on various local and educational committees.

Over the years, John advanced as a respected leader, ultimately retiring in 2001 as Vice President and General Manager of Siemens Automotive Division. He was not only a brilliant engineer but also a generous mentor and advocate for those around him, always leading with wisdom, humility, and compassion.

Soon afterwards, John was called back to leadership by NACOM in Griffin, Georgia, where he mentored future leaders and continued to champion education and innovation. He retired once more in 2006, settling with Linda in Williamsburg, Virginia, where their days were filled with love for family, adventures on the water, and travels around the world.

John was a deeply committed family man. His greatest joys were his wife Linda, their children Kristin (Paul) and John (Beth), and his beloved grandchildren Joshua, Katie, Joey, Julia and Whitley. His legacy lives on not only in his professional accomplishments, but in the lives he touched—with warmth, guidance, and quiet strength.

John H. Olson’s life was one of purpose, passion, and love. He will be dearly missed by all who had the honor to know him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, their children and families, as well as his nieces Jan (Kevin) and Sue (Joe) and nephew Rick.

A visitation for John will be held Monday, July 14, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Nelsen Funeral Home, 3785 Strawberry Plains Rd., Williamsburg, VA 23188. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, July 15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Nelsen Funeral Home. A private burial will take place at Old Brick Church Cemetery in Surry, VA.