Clifford Carl "Cliff" Olson

Northeast Harbor

Clifford Carl Olson, 83, died February 4, 2026, at Redington-Fairview General Hospital in Skowhegan. He was born on December 15, 1942, in Holden, Mass., the son of Carl W. and Eleanor I. (Laderman) Olson.

Cliff graduated from Wachusett High School, Holden, Mass. He received his BA in 1965 from the New England College, Henniker, NH., where he was treasurer of his fraternity and co-captain of the basketball team. In 1968 he received his master's from Keene State College, Kenne, NH.

On January 22, 1966, he married Katherine J. Berdecki, and in September of that year they moved to Mt. Desert Island where Cliff started his career in education. He taught history and English at Mount Desert High School in Northeast Harbor and in 1969 became a guidance counselor and eventually a director at Mt. Desert Island High School. During his career and life, he interacted with many students and individuals through sports, coaching basketball, little league and cross country. He took students bowling, skiing and hiking.

After Cliff retired in 2000, he worked as a tour bus guide and crew leader for Friends of Acadia. He also volunteered at Island Connections, The Land and Garden Preserve and the Northeast Harbor Village Improvement Society where he diligently maintained as well as built trails.

Traveling in his Casita was a winter adventure he looked forward to and was able to explore the country over several trips. He also enjoyed sports, music, gardening, and several outdoor activities, Molasses Pond, Trenton, Orland, and especially running. He ran many races including the Boston Marathon in 1986.

Cliff was proud of his family and felt fortunate that he had the opportunity to see his sons and grandchildren attain their initial goals. He was a kind, gentle, thoughtful, hardworking, fun-loving man who always saw the positive side of individuals. His family often joked that he was "running for governor" as it seemed no matter where he went, he made a connection.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years Katherine; two sons, Carl Olson and wife Leah and Michael Olson and wife Sheridy; four grandchildren, Zoe, Cody, Nathaniel, and Lucus; sister Judith Evangelidis; sister-in-law Elizabeth Rivers; a special nephew Lew Evangelidis and nieces. He was predeceased by his parents, and his canine pals, Shorty, Jagalon, Skipper, Buster, and his "girlfriend" Ruby.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10-11am, April 4, 2026, with a service to follow at 11am at Jordan-Fernald, 1139 Main St., Mt. Desert.

Those who desire may make contributions in Cliff's memory to the charity of one's choice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com