James C. Olson, 87

James Olson

Rochester (formerly of Blue Earth) – James C. Olson entered his heavenly home on Feb. 8, 2018 with his family by his side at Chosen Valley Care Center in Chatfield.

Jim was born Aug. 3, 1930, to Jonie and Gladys (Carlson) Olson at home in Bricelyn. He graduated from Frost High School in 1949. He married his wife, Mary June Morgan, on June 26, 1954 in Blue Earth. They had five children.

Jim had a knack for small business. He and his brother Don operated the Broiler Caf in downtown Blue Earth. He worked as a meat cutter for Elmer’s SuperValu for 20 years. An opportunity to operate a grocery store in Elmore came his way and he worked his way from a two aisle store to a six aisle store. He sold the store in Elmore and purchased the Swim-Inn Drive Inn in Blue Earth for several years before getting back to his roots in meat cutting by purchasing the Blue Earth Locker. After a successful run there he started a new venture on Main Street called Olson’s Butcher Block. In 1987, Mary and Jim moved to Rochester where he worked for Just Right Foods, cutting meat for 20 more years.

Jim valued his relationship with the Lord and Savior Jesus. He embraced all of His blessings, especially God’s creations. He was an active member of Bethel Lutheran Church and served on various committees.

He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, and fishing and spending time making memories with his grandchildren. His love for making people laugh with his humor and jokes were notorious among his family and friends. He was very proud of his Norwegian heritage. The angels will all enjoy Jim’s humor . . . “Ole and Lena were walking in to the bar”

He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Rochester; daughters, Deb (Gregg) Myers, of Apple Valley, Kari (Jim) Kiehne, of Rochester, Kim (Rich) Rud, International Falls; son, David (Deb) Olson, Blue Earth; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; brother, Don (Barb) Olson; sister, Betty Fisher; step-brother, Daris (Karen) Mulkin; one half-sister, Rhonda Rae.

He was preceded in death by his parents; half-brother, Matt (Debbie) Olson, and son Steven Olson, also many aunts and uncles.

A celebration of life service was held at Bethel Lutheran Church in Rochester on Friday, Feb. 16, 2018.

Thank you to those who prayed and cared for Jim in his time of illness. To all the Mayo doctors and nurses, Chosen Valley Care Center and Assistant Living staff, and Seasons Hospice staff.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Lutheran Church, Seasons Hospice or Chosen Valley Care Center.