Richard "Dick" M. Olson's Obituary
Richard M.(Dick) Olson, 86, of Albany passed away Saturday, June 24, 2023 at Big Meadows in Savanna, IL.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Dick’s birthday, Wednesday, July 19th from 3-7pm at the home of Suzanne and Dave Rose located at 4426 Bellevue Road, Clinton IA.
Richard Merle Olson was born July 19, 1936 in Clinton, Iowa, the son of Merle (Feather) and Mary (2D) Graf Olson. He married Suellen Savory Schuey in Richmond, Virginia on August 4, 1986. He was a graduate of Clinton High School, Iowa State Teachers College and earned a Master’s Degree from the University of Iowa. Dick worked as a High School Counselor for Clinton High School for 35 years. During that tenure he was also the official videographer of River King football.
Born on Beaver Island, he was always a “River Rat” and never missed an opportunity to tell a story about life on the Mississippi. He custom built several fast boats in which he enjoyed taking his children water skiing on the Mississippi. They took several fishing trips to Canada, taking pride in the logistics and planning. He loved attending his children’s activities.
In later years he liked nothing better than taking his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren on river adventures. Richie, as he was affectionately known, loved traveling the world with Suellen. They made lifelong friends in each and every port, which led to invitations to many corners of the globe.
He lived life to the fullest and made the world a better place. He was a selfless, genuinely good person who was loved by many.
Richie and Suellen moved to Albany so they could live on the Mississippi River. He was a private pilot, taking every opportunity he could to get up in the air. An avid golfer, he took pride in being able to shoot his age.
He is survived by his wife Suellen Olson of Albany; three children: Eric (Bonnie) Olson of Spring Hill, Kansas, Mark (Vicki) Olson of Wentzville, Missouri and Beth (Bruce) Campbell of Westerville, Ohio; and four grandchildren: John Olson, Kyle Olson, Jillian Olson and Allison Campbell. This only child always marveled at the size of his extended family. He also is survived by 5 in-laws, 4 outlaws and 30 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents.
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