Ronald Allen "Ron" Olson

1947 - 2024

Groton - Ron Olson passed away unexpectedly at his home in Groton, Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024. He will be missed by his family, friends and everyone whose days he brightened through his kindness, humor, spontaneity and charm.

Ronald Allen Olson was born Sept. 15, 1947, to Vera and Jonas Olson in Dunn County, Wis. and later moved to Marion, Iowa. The first of four brothers (Mike, Jay and Randy), Ron was a free spirit who was always up for anything. Ron had a disarming nature that made those around him – whether close friends or complete strangers – feel comfortable and welcome, and he had a gift for finding humor in everyday occurrences and helping others to do the same.

In 1967, Ron went to Vietnam as part of the 25th Infantry Division and saw active combat throughout his tour of duty for which he was awarded a Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts. When he returned home, he sadly brought the war back with him. He dealt with the pain and trauma he experienced privately and quietly for many years but sought to face and understand it towards the end of his life. He was a patriot and proud of his service but was opposed to future generations having to experience the horrors of war.

Ron was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and enjoyed his lifelong career as an electrician. He married Vicki Gillman and had two children, Amee and Tyler. Vicki and Ron loved to entertain and spend time with their family and friends and were active in the softball league and Jeep club. They hosted 500-night (cards) and many family celebrations. Their parties are still talked about fondly today.

Ron and the family moved to East Lyme in 1984 to work on the Millstone nuclear power plant where he eventually co-founded Quality Electric, serving residents and businesses across Connecticut until his retirement in 2012. He was a loving and devoted father who never missed a game or recital and was proud of his children and grandchildren.

Ron is survived and adored by his daughter Amee (Michael); son Tyler; and grandchildren, Titus, Maxwell, Madeleine and Olivia; close friend and former spouse Vicki Olson; his brother Jay Olson (Sue Kula); sister-in-law Amy Olson; and very special aunts and cousins.

A Celebration of Life for Ron will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Oct. 5, in Niantic, at Constantine's on the Bay. Condolences may be shared on Ron's memorial page at www.neilanfuneralhome.com.