Roland Charles Olson

Roland Charles Olson, lovingly known by most as "Rolly", passed away peacefully on June 15, 2025, at the age of 85, surrounded by family who cherished him.
Born on November 13, 1939, Rolly lived a life full of hard work, laughter, and music. He called Manton, Michigan, home for many years, but from 1994 to 2004, he and his beloved wife Georgette lived in Laughlin, Nevada, where they enjoyed life together and spent countless joyful hours at the local casinos-one of their favorite pastimes. Throughout his working life, Rolly wore many hats-he was a mechanic, a truck driver for Central Beverage, and later became a familiar and well-loved face in the community as the manager at Thirlby Automotive. Nearly everyone in town knew Rolly by name and by his easygoing, kind-hearted nature. Rolly was also an incredibly gifted musician. He was an excellent singer and bass guitarist who performed for many years in two local bands: The Honky-Tonk Express and Rolly and the One-Eyed Jacks. Music was in his soul, and he shared it freely with those lucky enough to hear him play.
When he wasn't working or performing, Rolly could usually be found at the casino. His playful spirit always came through with a twinkle in his eye and his favorite phrase: "Do I have time for one more twenty?" Rolly had a fun-loving, slightly dorky charm that made everyone smile. He took meticulous care of everything he owned-from his cars to his lawn tractor. After mowing the grass, he'd wax the tractor and armor-all the tires, just to make sure he'd never have to buy another one. It was just one of the many ways he showed pride in everything he did.
He was the glue in his family-always making sure everyone got along and that no one went without. He had a generous heart, a peaceful presence, and a natural ability to make people laugh and feel loved. Rolly was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Georgette Olson; his mother, Ruth Waldron; stepfather, Harry Waldron; father, Albert Olson; and stepmother, Svea Olson. He is survived by his brother, Albert Jr. (Joanne) Olson of Cocoa Beach, Florida; his daughter, Kimberly (Todd) Burdine of Manton; his son, Jan Olson of Traverse City; his grandchildren, Craig (Angie) Helsel of Manton, Nathan Helsel of Manton, and Wendy Olson of Traverse City; and his great-grandsons, Clayton and Austin Helsel of Manton.
Funeral arrangements and a celebration of Rolly's life are still being planned and will be announced by the family at a later date. Rolly will be deeply missed-not just for the music he played or the parts he sold, but for the love, laughter, and legacy he leaves behind. His stories, his spirit, and that unforgettable smile will live on in all who knew him. Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.HoldshipFuneralHomes.com The family is being served by the Hall-Holdship Funeral Home
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