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Michael Olson Obituary
Michael (Mike) Ray Olson
April 26, 1955 - Sept. 20, 2023
SHIRLEY - On September 20, 2023, Michael (Mike) Ray Olson, 68, of Shirley, IL, passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Bonnie (Deiter), and both of his children, Christopher Ray Olson and Emily Amanda Morris at his side.
Mike and Bonnie married in 1976, and were lifetime residents of McLean County. They resided on the family farm in Shirley, IL.
Mike farmed his entire life, starting with his father Harry, as a boy, until taking over the operation with his brother John. They were fortunate to work and partner with many great landowners and farm managers and had a successful farming career together until he retired in 2020.
Mike, the youngest of four children, was born on April 26, 1955, to Harry and Betty Olson in Bloomington, IL. His early jobs, which he held down while in school, included working at Funks Grove Maple Syrup, and other rural jobs. He was a graduate of Heyworth High School, and later Illinois State University.
In a word, Mike was a dedicated farmer who enjoyed traveling with friends and family. Over the years he enjoyed skiing, golfing, and boating. He went on many adventures around the world and truly enjoyed seeing new places and getting away. He was a longtime member of the Funks Grove township board - giving back however he could. Mike enjoyed the entire farming community and their neighbors. Mike and Bonnie visited their home in the Ozarks regularly and more recently, they frequented Arizona in the winters.
Mike was predeceased by father, Harry Olson; and mother, Betty Olson. He is survived by wife, Bonnie (Deiter) Olson; son, Christopher Ray Olson (Pamela); and daughter, Emily Amanda Morris (Jimmy); as well as his siblings: Susan Kopetz (Steve), Harry Alan Olson (Marsha), and John Olson (Linda). He is also survived by four well-loved grandchildren: Harrison Olson (Chris) and Makena, Shelby, and Jack Morris (Emily).
No visitation, memorial or gatherings will be held in accordance with Mike's wishes.
Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Home Heyworth is in charge.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Olson
Sponsored by Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Homes - Heyworth.
4 Entries
Janey and Mike Roddy
September 26, 2023
Thanks to AirTran we had a opportunity to get to know Bonnie and Mike. We have had some great fun! The heavens have gained another angel...and we have lost a dear friend. RIP Mike....hope you shoot them straight up there and we will miss our visits in AZ.
Mike Orrick
September 24, 2023
Mike and I were childhood neighbors. I think the last time I saw him was in the mid seventies while we were collecting sap for Funk´s Grove Maple Syrup. Deepest condolences to Bonnie and the Olson family.
Jo Deatrick Daugherty
September 24, 2023
Sorry for your loss, I was younger than the 4 boys, Mike, Bobby Ray, Kerry kidwell, n Mike Walden. They were in my parents 4-h club. We all traveled around n showed cattle together. They were like big brothers. I have so many good n hilarious memories growing up. One state fair memory with Mike n his new boots I will never forgot. Again sorry for your loss.
Nancy
September 24, 2023
Our sympathies to you Bonnie and the rest of your family.
Joe and Nancy Friedrich
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Calvert-Belangee-Bruce Funeral Homes - Heyworth204 E Cole St, Heyworth, IL 61745
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