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Tom Olson Obituary
Tom was born in Montevideo, MN on August 23, 1949, to Arnold and Ruth (Zimmerman) Olson. Shortly after his birth Tom's family moved to Aberdeen, SD, where he grew up and attended school, graduating from Aberdeen Central High School. After graduation he joined the Navy and served during Vietnam. After his service he returned to Aberdeen and attended Northern State College graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Business.
After Tom graduated from college he moved to Illinois and worked as a stock broker. While in Illinois he met Jill Bolton and they were married in Highland IL on January 8th, 1982. Tom was an adventurous entrepreneur who was never afraid of a challenge. Because of his larger-than-life spirit and work ethic he and his family moved many times opening new businesses along the way living in Texas, Wisconsin, Florida and finally back to Pierre where he owned and operated the Out Post Lodge and Big Tom's Diner.
Tom enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing, telling stories, gardening and watching his "sweet girl" Everlie.
Tom is survived by his better half and wife Jill to whom he was married to for almost 41 years. Tom and Jill were blessed with four wonderful children Heath, Kalie, Tieg and Codi (deceased) as well as his granddaughter Everlie O'Malley all of Pierre. He is also survived by his daughter Tanya (Dean) Tyska of Inverness, IL and grandsons Dylan, Sam and his brother Bob (Cheri) Olson of Aberdeen.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and daughter Codi O'Malley.
Jill and the kids feel blessed that Tom brought them along on the exciting journey that their lives together had in store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Linda Hanson Fromm
March 4, 2023
My heart goes out to jill and the kids. I will always remember him (and you all fondly).
Susan (Soike) Spear
January 7, 2023
My message didn't attach to my photos, so I'll explain. Tom and I grew up together. Beginning at Howard Hedger Elementary in Aberdeen through junior high at Monroe, and high school at Central. He was a great friend right from the start. Always happy, smiling, and quick with a compliment and a hug. I was so sad to hear he had passed. I saw him last at our 50th class reunion in 2017. The photos are from 6th grade at Howard Hedger and our 25th class reunion. Sending my deepest condolences to Jill and Tom's entire family, along with much love and prayers.
Steve Brockhouse
January 6, 2023
So sorry to hear about my dear friend Tom. I enjoyed fishing, golfing, and telling both jokes and stories with him. Haven't seen much of him lately but will definitely miss my big friend. Take care Jill and family.
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Susan (Soike) Spear
January 6, 2023
Susan (Soike) Spear
January 6, 2023
Susan (Soike) Spear
January 6, 2023
Tom was a dear friend of mine since grade school. I was so sad to hear he had passed. Tom was the kind of guy who always made you feel good. Always a smile, always happy and was quick with a compliment. Saw him last at our 25th class reunion. I'm attaching a picture that was taken that night, along with one of him clowning around in our sixth grade classroom. Sending my deepest condolences to Jill and his entire family. He will surely be missed. Much love and prayers.
Mike & Diana Vogel
January 6, 2023
Our deepest sympathy and prayers for Tom´s family!
I´ve known Tom since I was 5, we attended Bethlehem Lutheran Church together. My dad, Roy Bagne and Arnie were friends.
When my husband, Mike Vogel, broke his ankle playing basketball for the Eagles, Tom was his replacement.
We also lived in Pierre for many years & would run into Tom on many occasions. Adventurous spirit describes him perfectly!
Glenn Harris
January 6, 2023
I will miss Big Tom, he always had a smile on his face when he saw me coming in his restaurant especially when he made me a mushroom & Swiss burger. Miss you brother
Mark Nichols
January 5, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Steve and Brenda Burns
January 5, 2023
We are so very sad to learn of the passing of Tom! Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family!
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