John Olson

John Olson was my first supervisor when I became an MMSD principal. John was an amazing mentor and thought partner. He supported me and helped me formulate my leadership direction. I respected him a great deal. I will always be grateful for his guidance, support and friendship.

"Coach" was a huge influence on me 7th through 12th grade ('67-'73 JMM) as a gym teacher and football coach. He was my Drivers Ed instructor (Summer 1971) His in-laws (Lowell and Judie Bakken) are neighbors, and I'd see him there time-n-again. Of all the advice he offered over, half a century ago, retained to this day, what I remember best is: "Paul, don't argue with the ref's call, he's not going to change his mind." RIP, Coach!

Mr. Olson was my biology teacher at Central High School. I now live in Kansas and not able to attend his services. I know I actually enjoyed Biology class and totally raised my hand when I had answers. You never felt small or unnoticed by Mr. Olson. Being kind was one of his greatest assets.

In my life, few helped make me a man as much as Mister Olson. As a "talent challenged" ninth grader who tried out for the boy's basketball team. Mr. Olson made me his "assistant coach" so as not to be demeaned as "just the manager". In so doing, Mister Olson helped build my pride as he taught me the majesty of discipline and the beauty of friendship. It was long "rides home" after practice where he and I would have time to talk as he gave me the guidance I never got at home. It was the years...

I only have the fondest memories of Mr Olson! He was my coach at James Madison Memorial. Through the years whenever we would see each other he would always ask how I and my family was doing and I always replied with, we're all doing just fine Mr Olson at which he would say Bob, call me John, I always told him that I can't do that because I have too much respect for you! So with that said, rest in peace Mr Olson! Bob Schwartz