David Olson

We celebrate the life of John “David” Olson, who went home to be with his Lord and Savior on October 16, 2025. Though his passing leaves a deep void, we find comfort in knowing that he now rests in the presence of the One he faithfully served throughout his life.

He was born on June 21, 1948, in Bottineau, North Dakota, to parents, Sixten and Evelyn Olson. David is survived by his loving companion, Carole Johnson; children, Leslie (Reggie) Holcomb, JD (Tiana) Olson; grandchildren, Breanna (Rangler) Howe, Paige Holcomb, Alexia Olson, Isabella Olson; great grandchildren, Ryder Howe, Royce Howe; siblings, Bonnie (Bruce) Boetcher, Ruth Olson, Sixten Olson and Irvin Olson. Also survived by David, Michael, BJ, and Matthew Johnson and grandchildren Katie, Haley, Ethan, Danny, Tate, Tyler, Caden and Kaya Johnson. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Sheldon Olson, Dennis Olson, and Donald Olson.

David grew up on a farm in Bottineau, North Dakota where they raised cattle, horses and grain crops. The family moved to Salem, Oregon in 1960. David attended Judson Junior High and South Salem High School where he participated on the track and basketball teams. He graduated from South Salem H.S. in 1966. He went on to Willamette University where he played basketball for a year. Then transferred to Central Oregon Community College in Bend, Oregon, and then went on to the University of Oregon.

He dabbled in different occupations over the years, from sales, real estate, furniture moving and storage and finally drove cross country for United Van Lines.

David will be remembered for his deep love of family, his faith, and his kind spirit. He cherished time spent with his loved ones, enjoying church activities, sharing fellowship in his men’s Bible study group, his water classes at the YMCA, and the occasional golf game. He also found great joy in hearing about and watching his grandchildren, nieces and nephews’ activities and celebrating their accomplishments. David loved sports of all kinds; whether watching on tv or out at the fields.

David and Carole loved to travel, specifically hunting for lighthouses and covered bridges, no matter how long the drive was to get there. They loved taking road trips through the farm lands and country side looking for old barns; capturing memories and stories along the way.

David was an avid singer; singing in various choirs over the years, and loved his Swedish heritage. He was a wonderful storyteller, sharing memories from his trucking days and sharing his faith to anyone who would listen. He was an extreme trivia enthusiast. David could tell you in detail things and events not only within the family, but historical people and events. Sometimes we had no idea what he was sharing with us. LOL He could always find someone to talk to wherever he went.

David’s faith was the foundation of his life. He lived each day with a deep sense of gratitude and trust in God’s plan. His devotion to Christ was evident in the way he treated others—with kindness, patience, and a servant’s heart. Whether studying Scripture, participating in church events, or offering a listening ear to a friend in need.

David’s life was a testament to faith, family, and friendship. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Salem, Oregon on November 6, 2025 at Salem Height Church – Chapel, 375 Madrona Street S., Salem, OR 97302 at 1:00 PM PST. To watch the livestream, please click here: John Olson Celebration of Life - November 6, 2025

A Celebration of Life will also be held in Westfield, Indiana on November 15, 2025 at CrossRoads Church, 19201 E.191st St., Westfield, IN 46074. Visitation will be at 1.00 PM and the service at 2:00 PM EST. To watch the livestream, please click here: David Olson Celebration of Life - YouTube

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor his memory to make memorial contributions in his name to Special Olympics or their favorite charitable organization.