Newfolden – William “Junior” Olson Jr., 88, of Newfolden, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, with his loving family by his side.
William Olson Jr., born on January 12, 1937, in Marsh Grove Township, Marshall County, rural Newfolden, passed away surrounded by love and gratitude for a life well-lived. He was the twelfth of thirteen children born to William and Mabel (Haugen) Olson and was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran faith in Newfolden.
Junior began his lifelong dedication to hard work at the young age of 12, helping his mother on the family farm. He attended Marsh Grove and Newfolden Schools before embarking on a life filled with farming and various occupations. After marrying Janice Darlene Nelson on February 23, 1957, at the home of Rev. Thorvald Myhrer, Junior purchased his own farm and cultivated many acres while also working as a truck driver in various capacities, including gravel hauling, turkey and potato transport, and mail delivery routes.
Known for his sharp mind, sense of humor, and willingness to lend a helping hand, Junior was a beloved figure in his community. He cherished his wife Janice, their children Russell and Kristie, and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His joy was evident in every visit with family and friends.
Junior found happiness in life on the farm, tending livestock in his younger years, attending auction sales, and enjoying John Deere tractors. He loved dancing with Janice, playing cards with friends at the Newfolden Café, and sharing laughter through his playful jokes. His gratitude for life’s blessings shone brightly to all who knew him.
May Junior’s memory bring comfort to those who loved him and inspiration to all who admired his hardworking spirit and kind heart.
Survivors include his loving wife of 67 years, Janice; son, Russell (Shelly) Olson; daughter, Kristie (David) Jenson; grandchildren, Riley (Courtney) Olson, Tyler Olson, Hailey (special friend, James) Olson, Tristan (special friend Emily) Jenson; great-grandchildren, Ronan and Rhett; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joan Roppe, Marian Peterson, Vernon (Sheila) Nelson, Gary (Karen) Nelson, Patty Nelson, Larry Landreville; and many other relatives and friends.
He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Mabel Olson; father- and mother-in-law, Nels and Bertina Nelson; 12 brothers and sisters; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Wallace Roppe, Arnold Peterson, Jerome Nelson, Marvin (Avis) Nelson, and Deloris (Albin) Holten.
Visitation was held from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. with a 5 p.m. prayer service on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls.
Visitation began at 1 p.m. with the funeral service to celebrate William’s life at 2 p.m. on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Westaker Free Lutheran Church in Newfolden. Rev. Kevin Hall officiated.
Burial was held at Oak Grove Cemetery in Newfolden.
Condolences may be sent at www.johnsonfuneralservice.com.
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