Rodney Kenneth Olson

Rodney Kenneth Olson, 69, of Hallwood, VA, passed away at his home on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

Born October 24, 1955, in Huntington, NY, Rodney was one of three children of Rodney Kallman Olson and Jennie Mary Olson. Growing up on Long Island, he discovered his lifelong love for fast cars and motorcycles. Days were spent working hard, and nights often found him down by the water, gathered around a bonfire with friends, rock 'n' roll playing into the night.

A true master mechanic, Rodney could fix just about anything with an engine and make it purr like a kitten (or roar like a lion). The Harley Davidson Man's happiest moments came with the wind at his back and the open road ahead, riding his bike down back roads with '90s country music blaring, finding peace in the solitude of the ride.

As much as he loved his bikes, nothing compared to the love he had for his children. His greatest pride and joy in life were his "three babies"-Rodney, Heather, and Amber. Being a father was, in his eyes, his life's greatest accomplishment, and when he became a grandfather to nine, his world felt complete.

Rodney was known for his colorful way with words and his habit of telling it like it was. He rarely held back his thoughts, yet just as quickly, he would go out of his way to help anyone in need-offering the shirt off his back without hesitation. In his final days, Rodney had begun a new project, rebuilding an '85 Chevy Blazer from the ground up. His family has vowed to finish the work as a tribute to the man they loved so deeply.

Rodney is survived by his children, Rodney Olson Jr. of Clarkston, WA, Heather Sorvillo and her husband, August Sorvillo, of Cameron, NC, and Amber Laden and her husband, David Laden, of St. Paul, MN; sister, Laura Segler and her husband, Dale Segler, of Grant, FL; brother, Alan Olson of Vero Beach, FL; grandchildren, Brooklyn, Rodney, Josephine, Alexa, Caleb, Liam, Audrey, Nathaniel, and Dean; and nieces and nephews, Alan Olson, Michael Olson, and Amanda Olson.

He was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Rodney Kallman Olson and Jennie Mary Olson; partner and love of over 20 years, Andrea Carter; dear nephew, Nicholas Olson; and best friend and sidekick, his dog Harley

A Celebration of Life will be held in North Carolina at a later date.

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home.