Donald Elvin Olson, a beloved husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 23, 2024, at the age of 89. Born in 1934 to Elvin and Chris Olson, Don grew up in a family filled with love and shared adventures. He was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and daughter Brenda Olson and is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara, his son Duane his wife Lisa, and his grandsons Jeremy and Ryan.

Don graduated from Quinault High School in 1952 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Engineering in 1960, followed by a Master’s in Business. His career began with service in the Army from 1954 to 1956, a chapter that shaped his disciplined and dedicated approach to life.

Following his military service, Don contributed to the family business at Olson/Osborne Logging Company before moving to Denver to work at Martin Marietta. His career took him back to Washington, where he worked for Lamb’s Grays Harbor, and then to California in 1976, where he joined Combustion Power Company. He retired in February 1991, closing a career marked by hard work and commitment.

Don was a man of many interests and remarkable feats. In his youth, he was known for his adventurous spirit, having ridden bucking broncos and becoming the youngest person to hike over the Olympic Mountains with a pack at just five years old. After retirement, Don enjoyed a quieter life filled with reading mystery novels, watching the news, managing his investments, and vacationing on Maui with his family, where he found great joy and relaxation.

Don’s request for no formal services reflects his humble nature. He will be laid to rest in Maui alongside his beloved daughter, Brenda, in a place that brought him great joy. His legacy lives on through the memories and love he shared with those who knew him.

He is remembered with deep affection by his family and friends and will be greatly missed.