Philip Leland Olson

1942 - 2026

Philip Leland Olson

April 6, 1942 - January 2, 2026

Philip Leland Olson, 83, of Wausau, passed away January 2, 2026, at Our House Memory Care. Born on April 6, 1942, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, Philip was baptized on May 31, 1942, and confirmed on October 27, 1957, a testament to his deep faith. After graduating from Mindoro High School in 1960, he pursued further education and graduated from UW La Crosse in 1965. Phil worked for Marshfield Clinic for many years, and since 1997, worked as a trucker for Primesource.

On May 24, 1996, Phil embarked on a new chapter, as he joined hands in matrimony with his beloved wife Carol J. Zernicke. They exchanged their sacred vows at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church, a place that held special significance. Together, they shared countless joyous moments and supported one another through life's challenges.

Phil's warmth and kindness extended far beyond his professional and personal endeavors. He actively contributed to his community, serving as trustee and president of Auburndale Lutheran Church and later serving as an Elder at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church. His unwavering commitment to faith and sharing his knowledge brought light to the lives of many. Phil was also a member and president of both the Auburndale Lions Club and Marshfield Sons of Norway, and was a leader in Awanas of Marshfield.

In his leisure time, Phil found solace in the simple joys of life. He enjoyed nature's beauty and often escaped to the peace and tranquility of his cottage and camper Up North. Fond memories were created while fishing on the crystal-clear waters and leisurely pontoon rides filled with laughter. Above all, Phil found immeasurable pride and joy in his family, who served as a constant source of inspiration. Their accomplishments and kind hearts brought him immense happiness and deep gratitude.

Philip is survived by his children, Julie (Scott) Mueller, Laura Dronen, and Philip (Jenny) Olson, Jr.; step-daughters, Tammy (Ron Mattson) Behnke and Terra (LeRoy) LaFave; grandchildren, Taylor (Mike) Murphy, Anna (Sepehr Ebadi) Mueller, and Grace Mueller, Maria (Kyle) Daley, Bryan, and David Dronen, Elizabeth and Alex Olson, Matthew Hieronimus, Nicholas, Dakota, and Peyton (Orean) Behnke, Nicole (Adam) Marone, and Josh LaFave; great-grandchildren, Hunter, Morgan, Gavin, Rowan, Isla, and Theodore; siblings, Sharon (Gayle) Monicken, Marjorie (John) Arneson; brothers and sisters-in-law, Geneva Olson, Howard (Carmell) Hanson, Martin (Joyce) Zernicke, Wallace Zernicke, Betty (Dennis) Metz, Lyle (Linda) Zernicke, Lori Zernicke, Elgard (Carolyn) Barttelt, Jr.; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by wife, Carol J. Olson; parents, Orvis and Mildred Olson; sister, Ardyce Hanson; brother, Dennis Olson; son-in-law, Bryan Behnke; nephew, Scott Zernicke; mother and father-in-law, Maynard and Ruth Zernicke; brothers-in-law, LeRoy and Gary Zernicke; sisters-in-law, Mary Barttelt, Deanna and Carolyn Zernicke.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at Helke Funeral Home, 302 Spruce Street, Wausau. Funeral services for Phil will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 10:00 am at Rib Mountain Lutheran Church, 227150 Harrier, Avenue, Wausau. Rev. Dwayne Lueck will officiate. Visitation will be held from 9:00 am until the time of service at the church. Phil will be laid to rest in Big Hill Cemetery.

Helke Funeral Home is assisting the family.