William Olson

William Charles Olson, 64, of Baxter, Minnesota, went to his higher power on October 9, 2025, with his family at his side following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born on October 31, 1960, in Brainerd, MN to Melvin “Butch” and Jeanne Vahda (Zimmerman) Olson.

Bill graduated from Brainerd High School in 1979. He served in the United States Airforce from 1983 to 1987 as a Senior Airman. Bill proudly graduated from Upper Iowa University in May of 2001 with a B.A. degree in Chemical Dependency Counseling. He spent the next 24 years as a counselor helping those in need. Often sharing the knowledge that he had gained through his own 29 years of sobriety.

Bill enjoyed spending time with family, fishing, gardening, feeding the birds, and spending time in nature.

He is survived by his wife Mary, sons Benjamin (Kara) Brady, Brandon Brady, and Cameron (Fiancé Mackenzie) Olson. Four grandchildren Kaden, Kyler, Abbi, and Emily, and his beloved dog Rose. He is also survived by his sisters, Ruth (Scott) Erickson, Rebecca Olson; niece Lexie (Matt) Niessink; great nephew Bodhi.

A Celebration of Life open house will be held on Friday, October 17, 2025, at Brenny Family Funeral Chapel in Baxter from 1pm – 2pm.

The family will host a Celebration of Life open house and potluck in Manchester, Iowa in spring of 2026.

The family extends a huge thank you to Vivie Hospice care team for their caring and compassionate service to our beloved Father, Grandfather and Husband.

In Lieu of flowers, memorials to Vivie Home Care and Hospice.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brenny Family Funeral Chapel, Baxter.