Robert James Olson

Mass of Christian Burial for Robert Olson, 69, of Minneota, will be held on Friday, July 17, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in Marshall. Interment will take place following the service at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Robert (Bob) James Olson was born on July 11, 1950, in St. Cloud, to James E. and Dorothy I. (Klein) Olson. Bob grew up on a farm in central Minnesota, was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church near his home, and converted to Catholicism later in life. He attended grade school in a one room country school and Foley High School where he played sports and participated in band and drama. He graduated with honors from Foley High School in 1968. Bob was awarded a commission to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, but chose instead to pursue a degree in civil engineering. He attended college at the University of Minnesota in Morris and Minneapolis. Bob excelled academically in all areas, especially in math and science. His free time was often spent challenging himself to solve difficult math and science problems. Bob enjoyed helping and tutoring high school students in the areas of calculus and physics in the various cities in which he lived. Music was a significant part of Bob’s life. He was proficient in playing the oboe and piano. He took piano lessons for many years including at St. John’s University in Collegeville. Bob died on Saturday, February 29, 2020, at the Minneota Manor in Minneota. He is survived by his sister Lorraine (Olson) Newkirk, niece Emilie (and James) (Newkirk) Greb and many cousins and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Dorothy Olson and brother-in-law, David Newkirk.