Calvin Price "Cal" Olson

Calvin "Cal" Price Olson

Calvin Price Olson, age 80, of Punta Gorda, Florida, formerly of Apple Valley, Minnesota, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. He was born on April 22, 1945, in Whitehall, Wisconsin, to Prie and Carolyn (Lindow) Olson.

Cal's artistic talent emerged at an early age when a teacher recognized his natural ability. He was raised in Blair, Wisconsin, where at age 16 he met his teenage sweetheart, LaVonne Lee. They married shortly after high school and welcomed their first son, Kale. Cal later attended the School of Associated Arts in St. Paul, Minnesota, where he earned a degree in graphic design. He began his career at Sperry Corporation, one of the earliest large computer companies, working as a graphic designer.

In 1968, Cal and LaVonne purchased their home in Apple Valley, Minnesota, where they later welcomed their second son, Kevin. Finding corporate life unfulfilling, Cal took a leap of faith at age 30 and founded his own graphic design business, Olson Design. Among his major clients were Golddiggers, a retail jewelry store in Edina, Minnesota; Christian Brothers Winery in Napa, California; and Park Plumbing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Cal was also a gifted musician who played trumpet in a band. His sons grew up listening to band rehearsals in the garage, often joined by neighbors who gathered outside to enjoy the music.

Having grown up without grandparents, Cal found deep joy in being a grandfather and great-grandfather.

In 1990, Cal and LaVonne opened Mainstreet Ice Cream in Onalaska, Wisconsin, while continuing their full-time jobs. Cal built the cabinetry and counters and created the artwork for posters and murals. LaVonne's parents, who were retired, managed the shop during the week, while Cal and LaVonne ran it on weekends, creating many cherished memories. The shop closed after 15 months.

In 2010, Cal suffered a stroke that left him without the use of his right hand. Despite this, he remained determined and creative-building an intricate model of the Titanic complete with lighting and even installing vinyl flooring in their lower-level home, accomplishing tasks in his own way and on his own time.

Throughout his life, Cal painted many pictures and portraits. He was also a photographer and sculptor. His work lives on.

In August 2021, Cal and LaVonne moved to Florida, fulfilling his long-held dream of leaving behind snow, cold, and shoveling. Both of their sons had already relocated there.

In 2024, Cal completed a dollhouse he had begun in 1991. He originally built it for his first granddaughter, Shayna, when she was five years old. When her children were old enough to play with it, he finished the dollhouse with furnishings, wallpaper, flooring, and lights.

In July 2025, Cal was diagnosed with an extremely rare stomach cancer. Beginning in August, he received loving care at home from his family, along with daily visits from hospice nurse and aide.

He was preceded in death by his son, Kale Olson; his parents, Prie and Carolyn Olson; sister, Donna Dahl; and brother, Ronald Olson.

Cal is survived by his wife of 62 years, LaVonne Olson; beloved granddaughters of son, Kale, Shayna (Dan) Lindquist and great-grandchildren and Marisa (Daniel) Bonanza; son, Kevin (Jodi) Olson; beloved grandsons, Hunter Olson and Ian (Samantha) Adams, and great-grandchildren; siblings, Wendell Olson, Phyllis Duxbury, and Lance Olson; along with many nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends.

A memorial service is planned for Spring 2026 in Blair, Wisconsin. Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society is assisting the family with arrangements.