Gordon Warren OLSON

Born in Stockton, CA, and moved to Santa Rosa at age 8 where he attended Santa Rosa High School, lettered in tennis and excelled as a member of the Chess club. After high school he attended Santa Rosa Junior College and transferred to Sacramento State University where he earned a Bachelors degree in Business and later passed the CPA exam. He supported himself in college by working for the railroad as a linesman. Gordon served in the Army during the Korean War and was given an honorable discharge. Putting his CPA's license to use Gordon worked for the IRS giving thirteen years of service and obtaining a level of GS13. In 1970 he then purchased rental property in Rio Nido where he spent the next 42 years as a landlord and a resident of the Russian River. For the last 12 years, during the winter months, he would travel to the Salton Sea area, enjoying the warm desert weather. One of Gordon's greatest passions was being an artist. A talent he has possessed since childhood. Finally in the last five years he has let his work be judged and at the local Sonoma County fair won three blue ribbons in one year. Gordon is survived by his son Russel, brother Howard, cousins Jerry, Hugh, Grace, Joan, and Donna. He is also survived by his long time partner Kitty Londo and her children, Rick, Terry and Cindy Hallowes, Dawnette Archer, Toni Townley and Brett Thacker. Gordon was greatly loved and will be missed by all who knew him. The memorial service will be held Saturday, January 19, 2013 at 3:00 p.m. in the Veterans Hall, Guerneville, CA. Donations and/or contributions can be made to "The American Cancer Society" charity in Gordon Olson's name.