Dean Martin Olson

Dean Martin Olson was born on February 25, 1947, in Genoa, Nebraska to Carole (Moore) Olson and John Gordon Olson. His family consisting of his sisters Marilyn, Jean (his twin), and Vera lived on a farm outside of Genoa. He grew up farming with his dad. Dean graduated from Kearney State College in 1969 and then spent thirteen months fighting for his country in the Army in Vietnam where he received a bronze star for sustained excellence and impact.

He married Sandra Bishop on February 14, 1971 in Gibbon, Nebraska and to them were born two sons – Andrew Dean and John William. Dean enjoyed spending time with his family and their many adventures. He loved playing cards with the six-pack (Kistlers and Straights) and their many travels.

He worked for Staab Management for over thirty-five years as their Chief Financial Officer and cherished his Staab family. He also loved playing golf with his Grand Island friends.

Dean was a member for a total sixty-six years of the Genoa Methodist Church, Grand Island (Trinity United Methodist), and Cypress Lake Methodist Church in Fort Myers, Florida. His strong Christian conviction was demonstrated daily, especially as he fought health problems. His eight grandchildren were his greatest joy. Dean is survived by his wife of fifty-five years, Sandy; his sons, John (Theresa); and Andy (Jenny); eight grandchildren (Brock, Erika, Eli, Addy, Mallory, and Grant Olson; and Kohlton and Kameron McCarty).

Also surviving Dean are sisters Jean (Larry) Andreasen of Columbus and family; and Vera (Dan) Zabloudil of Hastings and family; Megan (David) Zabel of Shawnee, Kansas; and Joe and Sandy Bishop of Worland, Wyoming.

He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Marilyn Wise.

The funeral will be held on Friday, April 3, 2026, at 10:00 am at Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island. Visitation will be on Thursday, at Apfel Funeral Home from 6:00 – 7:00 pm. Memorials can be made to the American Cancer Society or to Trinity United Methodist Church in Grand Island in remembrance of Dean.