Richard Kleven Olson

Richard K. Olson

Richard K. Olson peacefully passed away on Friday, January 16, 2026 at the age of 87. He was born on Friday, January 13, 1939 in Minneapolis, Minnesota and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

At 17 years old, Richard joined the United States Air Force, where he learned his craft as an Air Traffic Controller. Eventually, completing 28 years with the FAA, primarily at General Mitchell Field in Milwaukee.

In March of 1962, Richard married the love of his life, Joan Van Beck, beginning almost 64 years together. Along with being survived by his beloved wife Joan, Richard is survived by three sons Jeff (Brigitte), Steve (Renee) and Keith (Kim). Also survived by grandchildren Haley (Fred) Kolkoski, Kyle (Allie), Jack, Katie, Rachel, Sam (Sophia) and Max (Avalon) Olson. Great-grandfather of Weston, Chase, Wyatt, Ian, Isaac and Margaret. He is preceded in death by his parents Rudolph and his beloved mother Viola.

Richard had many hobbies, including golf, fishing, water sports and reading. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and he was fortunate enough to spend 27 winters in South Texas.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in the Summer. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Richard can be made to the Vision Forward Association (vision-forward.org).