Norman F. Olson, age 84, passed into God's hands on February 22, 2019, after a long hard fight with cancer. Norm was born in Chicago, IL on January 29, 1935, to the late Ena and Harold Olson.

Norm moved south on a football scholarship to Florida State University where he played football for four years and earned multiple degrees, including a Master's Degree, in Physical Education and History.

In 1964, Norm was recruited by Dekalb County, GA as the Head Football Coach at the new Lakeside High School, where he had a very successful career coaching football, wrestling and track. In 1968, Dekalb County, GA awarded Norm with the distinction of "Coach of the Year." In 2018, Norm was inducted into the Florida High School Hall of Fame (associated with FSU) for his work as an assistant coach for track and football in his early career. Norm also coached at Dublin High School and Newton County High School.

Norm retired from coaching in 1978, building a fine reputation with his artwork, especially his etching print making and pastels. Norm and his artist wife, Charlene, traveled extensively in the United States, Europe and United Kingdom. Norm and Charlene have enjoyed 20 years living in Athens, GA in the Cobbham area.

Norm is married to Charlene Winterle Olson and has six children: Lynn Pardue (Martin) and Laura Smith (Craig), both of Peachtree Corners, GA; Beth Summers (Jimmy) and Katie LaFlamme (John), both of Watkinsville, GA; Lance Smith (Janet) of Savannah, GA; and Kyle Anne Shiver (Buck) of Atlanta, GA. Norm and Charlene have nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Norm has one brother, Harold Olson (Dorothy) of Aurora, CO and a deceased sister, Carole Olson Graebner (Ted) of Reno, NV.

Norm was a wonderful son, husband, father and man. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

A private celebration of Norm's life will be held at Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes.

In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to the charity of your choice.

Lord and Stephens Funeral Homes, Athens, GA is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Athens Banner-Herald from Feb. 25 to Feb. 26, 2019.

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Theresa Cullen

February 25, 2019

Along with being a great coach, Norm was a fabulous neighbor in Cobbham (Athens). I had the privilege of living next door to Norm and Charlene for twenty years, where I remain in awe of the wonderful marriage they had. What a fine man he was in every sense of the word. He will be missed in the neighborhood for many years to come. I sure hope Pudge was waiting for him with a wagging tail.

Barbara Maxey

February 25, 2019

Barbara Maxey

February 25, 2019

My condolences to the family members and friends. I hope the words of Hosea 13:14 brings comfort to all doing this time of loss. Sincerely, YR

sandy young

February 24, 2019

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

February 24, 2019

Coach Olson's impact on me at age 67 is still evident. He was a man dedicated to hard work and team over individual. I had the privildegd of visiting him twice in his Athens home and found he never lost that competitive spirt. My sincere condolences to all of his family, I know he will be deeply missed.

Tom Watson
LHS 1970

Gene Ammann

February 24, 2019

More than a football coach at LHS, Norm Olson was a mentor to students, athletes, and their families. I was so fortunate to have him in my life. I learned what it took to be successful and a good teammate. And to never challenge him in arm wrestling.
He hosted me to FSU which reulted in a full baseball scholarship. So many great memories...
Best wishes to his family at this difficult time. May he rest in peace.

Gene Ammann
LHS 1967

Fred Manget

February 24, 2019

We were sad to hear of "Coach" Olson passing. For all of us who played for him at Lakeside High School, he was "THE Coach." He was one of the best motivators I have ever met in my many years. He inspired many kids during his time coaching--there is even a composite photo of him in one of the old Lakeside High School yearbooks walking on water. I know his family will miss him. Deepest sympathy.

Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes

February 25, 2019

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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