Jon H. Olson

1941 - 2023

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jon H. Olson, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many. Jon was born on July 30, 1941, in the Bronx, New York, and grew up in the New York, Long Island, and New Jersey areas before eventually making his home in the San Francisco Bay area in the late 60's. Over the years, he found joy and comfort in various places, calling San Francisco, Berkeley, Lake Tahoe, Palo Alto, Aptos, Healdsburg, Breckenridge, Colorado, and New York City his homes.?
A man of extraordinary accomplishments, Jon left an indelible mark on the communities he served. He attended UC Berkeley's Department of Landscape Architecture and dedicated much of his early career to shaping the natural world around him. His passion for the environment led him to be instrumental in the creation of the East Bay Regional Park District's regional bike and hiking trails, and its 20 Year Master Plan (1973), a gift that will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.?
Jon's dedication to preserving open space and making public lands more accessible was evident during his tenure as the first General Manager of the Mid-Peninsula Open Space District. He played a crucial role in founding California Land Management and was the visionary behind First Pacific Investments. His commitment to community development and environmental stewardship earned him widespread admiration and respect.?In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jon embraced a vibrant and adventurous life. He was a fervent road biker, competing in extreme road bike races and frequently competing in the SF Bay to Breakers. Jon's love for nature extended to the water, where he fearlessly embarked on kayaking excursions, including kayaking the fjords of Greenland and Norway.?Jon's diverse interests knew no bounds, and he found joy in exploring cultures and landscapes around the world. He crisscrossed the globe, backpacking through the stunning terrains of Bhutan, India, and Nepal, and traveled the storied Silk Road. His passion for travel took him to every continent, leaving no corner of the Earth unexplored. Jon's love for history led him to become an avid student of the Civil War and WWII. As a vigneron, he savored the art of winemaking.?
Art and collecting were close to Jon's heart, with a preference for contemporary Bay Area artists. He cherished the beauty of creativity and appreciated art from all corners of the world. Dogs were Jon's passion, beginning with Lyndon and Hubert, the bassets, followed by Heather, a springer spaniel, and later in his life, doodles. He had a soft spot for restaurants that allowed dogs, making every outing a delightful experience.?Above all else, Jon's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and compassion. He touched countless lives with his warm spirit and genuine concern for the well-being of others. Jon's commitment to environmental stewardship and his adventurous nature inspired those around him to live life to the fullest.?
Jon is survived by his loving sons, Ian Olson and wife Denise and Sean Olson and wife Vi. He was a cherished grandfather to Oliver, Kate, Thaila, Damian. He is also survived by his loving cousin Patrick Fitzgerald and his wife Angela, and his former wife Pamella Olson.?Currently, there are no plans for a memorial service. In honor of Jon's lifelong commitment to protecting the planet, the family kindly suggest donations be made to an environmental charity of your choice. May Jon's adventurous spirit and unwavering dedication to the environment continue to inspire us all.?
In closing, as we remember Jon Olson and his extraordinary life, it is fitting to reflect on the metaphorical significance of Norman Rockwell's "The Art Connoisseur" hanging above his breakfast table. This whimsical painting of a well-dressed man closely examining a chaotic Jackson Pollock-inspired artwork encapsulates Jon's own journey of contrast and extremes. Like the well-dressed gentleman in the painting, Jon embraced a life of diverse experiences and passions. From his upbringing on the East Coast to his eventual relocation to the West Coast, Jon thrived amidst contrasting environments. He embraced both the urban vibrancy of San Francisco and the tranquil beauty of Healdsburg, much like the way the artwork contrasts with Rockwell's style.
?May Jon's memory inspire us to embrace life's contrasts, celebrate diversity, and cherish the artistry of our own unique journeys. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his legacy will continue through the positive impact he had on the environment and the lives he touched.