George Olson, 85

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, October 20, 2009

George A. Olson, 85, of Owatonna, died Saturday, Oct. 17, 2009, surrounded by his family at Cedarview Care Center.
He was born Feb. 7, 1924, in Hartland, the son of William and Bertina (Sibelrud) Olson. George graduated from country school in Hartland, and then served during World War II with the 77th Division of the United States Army, serving in the campaigns of Leyte, le Shima, Okinawa, and the occupation force in Japan. Just last May George went on the Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., with his grandson. George married Beverly Neuman April 30, 1953, and together the couple ran Olson Floor Covering Store. George then worked as a floor covering installer for Brick Furniture, Nelson Decorating, Fabricated Woods, and Floor Crafters. He was a member of the United Methodist Church, lifetime member of the VFW, and a member of the Legion. George enjoyed watching the Vikings, Twins, and Gophers, and also liked to visit with friends and neighbors.
He is survived by his children: Lori (and Peter) Meyer, Sue (and Doug) Underland, Steve (and Arlys) Olson, and Kevin Olson, all of Owatonna; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by a brother, Clifford (and Millie) Olson of Hartland; and two sisters: Wilma (and Roger) Bindewald of Shakopee and Gloris (and Clifford) Frantum of Alden.
George was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly, in 2008; son, Gary; three sisters: Berdell, Blanche and Bonnie; and one brother, Wilbur.
Visitation will be at the Michaelson Funeral Home today from 4 to 7 p.m. and at the United Methodist Church on Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m. The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at United Methodist Church with the Rev. Loren Olson officiating. Interment will be in Owatonna Memorial Gardens with honors provided by the Steele County Military Funeral Unit.