Ivar Olson

Ivar Olson, age 101, of St. James died on Saturday, October 30, 2010, at the St. James Medical Center in St. James. Ivar lived a long life and we were all blessed to have him in our lives. As a young man he worked hard to support his siblings and parents, and continued that strong work ethic all his life. He loved to sit and talk, telling stories, and enjoying a hearty laugh. After he retired and was still able to drive, he would enjoy cruising through the St. James countryside viewing the state the farm crops. Ivar also spent many hours creating small furniture and toys from his stash of black walnut. In his later years, he was often spotted on his Jazzy scooter taking to trip down to the lake or visiting someone at the nursing home.We will remember Ivar as a kind and gentle man who easily shared his love with his family and friends. Ivar was preceded in death by his first wife, Ruth, his son Howard, his parents, 7 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his wife Margaret Olson of St. James, son Paul (Kathy) Olson of Andover, brother Elwin Olson of Robbinsdale, sister Marguerite Luiken of Faribault, 2 grandchildren John (Kim) Olson, Kris Olson, 4 great-grandchildren Zachary, Isaac, Olivia, Rachael, and Margaret's children Roger (Delores) Johnson family of Buffalo, Marilyn (Bob) Mayer family of St. Paul, numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorials be directed to the charity one ones choice.