Marlin Olson
Father, Veteran, Friend — and everything in between.
1938 – 2025
Marlin 'Dean' Olson, age 87, of Minnesota, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, at 2:32 p.m., with his daughter by his side and a chaplain guiding him home in prayer.
He served in the United States Army and carried the quiet strength of that service throughout his life.
Marlin was a man of few words, but when he spoke, it mattered. He believed peace came from within, and he taught his family to live by one simple truth:
"If you can look in the mirror and be at peace with your choices, you’re doing okay."
He is preceded in death by his wife, Laura Olson. He is survived by his daughter, Ashley; stepdaughter, Connie; stepson, Jeremi; granddaughter, Octavia; step-grandchildren, Jocelyn, Olivia, and Riley; sons-in-law, Thomas and Matthew; daughter-in-law, Shauna; and many more grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved him deeply.
He is also survived by his sons, Blake and Burnell.
A memorial will be held at 9 AM at Fort Snelling National Cemetery on July 10th, 2025. If attending, please enter the cemetery through Gate 2 and be to Assembly Area #2 by 8:45 AM to be part of the procession to the committal shelter for military honors.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more