Donald R. Olson, 89

Austin/Bricelyn – Donald Olson, age 89 of Austin, MN, formerly of Bricelyn, entered into eternal rest after a long battle with cancer Friday, Jan. 10, 2025 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Funeral service was held on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025 at Bethany Lutheran Church in Bricelyn at 11 a.m., Pastor Aaron Evenson and Donovan Olson officiated the service. Burial was after the service at South Blue Earth Cemetery with Military Honors by Bricelyn American Legion. Please see nasinecfh.com to leave online condolences.

Donald Richard Olson was born March 4, 1935 to John and Anna (Johnson) Olson near Bricelyn. Donald was baptized, confirmed and married at South Blue Earth Lutheran Church. He joined the Army on Feb. 16, 1955 and was honorably discharged on Feb. 15, 1957. Donald returned home and farmed for seven years and was united in marriage to VaLores Berg on Feb. 21, 1959. As a lifelong member of South Blue Earth Lutheran Church Donald served the congregation in every way he could including years of elected positions. He was a faithful man, and had a servant heart.

He enjoyed many activities including: hunting, fishing, camping, snowmobiling and four wheeling. The family garden was a true south Bricelyn attraction. He spent many snowy days clearing snow for the church, friends and neighbors. Donald never met a stranger and was a master of conversation with anyone he came across. He was the family driving instructor until his last days. Tracking the weather for all his family members was a daily activity and a great excuse to call and check in. Donald spent 26 years serving his community through his volunteer work with the Bricelyn Fire Dept and Ambulance crew.

After spending a lifetime in Bricelyn, Donald and VaLores moved to Austin in 2020.

Donald is survived by his best friend and loving wife, VaLores Olson; their children: Tammy (Nick) Reiher, Daniel (DeeAnn) Olson, Linda (Doug) Meyn, Paul (Kris) Olson, Lori (Mark) Wills; grandchildren whom he adored: Jillian Reiher, Andrew Reiher, Danielle Steinhauer, April Brase, Courtney Phillips, Brittany Grainge, Chris Meyn, Johnathan Olson, Benjamin Olson, Morgan Terwey, Leah Wills, Spencer Wills; great-grandchildren who brought him great joy: Mya, Mason, Nolan, Wyatt, Rae, Callie, Ava, Paxtyn, Harper, Graylee and another great granddaughter coming in May. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews and a large extended family.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents; siblings: Margaret (Lloyd) Larson, Marjorie (Norlan) Sorbo, Ruby Rienstra, Jeffrey (Marion) Olson, and a brother in infancy; in-laws: George and Helen Berg, George Berg, Jr and Florence Berg.