Richard N. "Rick" Olson

Richard Niles "Rick" Olson passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025, at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Rick was the son of the late Richard and Anna Olson of Cranston. Raised in Cranston, he lived in Smithfield for thirty-five years before recently moving to Plymouth, Massachusetts, to enjoy retirement.
Rick is survived by his devoted wife of thirty-five years, Donna (Matteo) Olson; his beloved son, Andrew, and Andrew's wife, Solanch Pastrana. He also leaves behind his four sisters: Kathleen Babigian (Stephen), Diane O'Brien (William), Carol Waterson (Bruce), and Mary-Beth Wolf (Gary); as well as his nieces, nephews, extended family, and many friends. He will also be dearly missed by his adored miniature poodle, Gracie.
Rick graduated from Rhode Island College with a degree in Chemistry and later earned a master's degree from Fitchburg State University. Throughout his career, Rick worked as both a chemist and a chemistry teacher. Lifelong learning fueled his curiosity, and he often said that his favorite role was teaching high school students to love chemistry.
Above all else, Rick treasured time with Donna, Andrew, and Solanch. He was an avid skier and a devoted New England Patriots fan. He loved taking long walks with his family. Recently, he had taken up pickleball and was excited to begin fishing this spring. Rick had a passion for travel, and he and Donna shared countless wonderful adventures in Europe and the United States.
His funeral will be held Friday May 2nd at 10am from the Anderson-Winfield Funeral Home, Route 44 at Greenville Common, Greenville, A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at St. Philip's Church, 622 Putnam Pike, Greenville, Rhode Island. Visiting hours will be held on May 1st from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the ICU teams at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Plymouth and Boston, as well as the first responders in Plymouth, for their care and support.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Rick's memory may be made to the American Cancer Society. The American Cancer Society