- Graeme Olson
With great sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of Graeme Ernest Olson, age 70, on December 1, 2020 at Dauphin Regional Hospital, Dauphin, MB, after a brief illness.
Graeme was born March 20, 1950 to parents, Virginia and Edwin Olson, in Dryden, ON, where he spent his formative years. During the summer of 1973 he married Lynda (Realini) Olson, his high school love and they shared 47 years together.
In 1974 Graeme graduated from Lakehead University, Thunder Bay, ON, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Forestry. This was such a suitable career path, given his enthusiasm for the outdoors. On going learning remained an important part of his life, returning to school in 1988 to add Ontario Certified Timber Scaler to his many accomplishments. The following 35 years were spent working in the forest product industry in Regina, Thunder Bay, Dryden and Roblin, MB.
In 1978 Graeme would add his cherished role of father to his resume becoming a strong role model and mentor to sons, Ron (1978), Todd (1981), and Adam (1984). He taught them values that remain today; for him family was everything. Graeme was the family’s “go to guy” for decision making and guidance. Graeme’s advice was only offered when asked and among family his point of view was valued and held in high esteem. Enduring bonds and memories were created at the family cottage on Amesdale Lake in Ontario. The fun times playing in the water and conversations around the fire pit, will be forever etched in our memory. Throughout Graeme’s life he was known for his quiet insight and sharp-witted humour that often caught us off guard but never failed to bring on laughter.
Volunteering and giving of himself was a compelling part of Graeme’s character. He served as minor ball and hockey coach, president of Northern Lights Credit Union (Dryden), contributed to the direction of the Manitoba Forestry Association, was a founding member of Roblin District Community Foundation and served as Councillor for the R.M. of Shell River.
2009 presented new challenges when Graeme was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. As the years moved on, he continued to offer Lynda help even when the tasks were beyond him. Daily inquiries about “the boys” and those “little ones” down the road, were common occurrences. All seven grandchildren brought immense joy and smiles to his life, each one always showing kindness and love towards “papa”.
Graeme was predeceased by his parents, Virginia and Edwin Olson of Dryden, ON.
Mourning his loss are his loving wife, Lynda; sons, Ron of Winnipeg, MB; Todd (Brenda), Jaden, Owen, Ashlyn, Ethan and Payton of Red Lake, ON; Adam (Rebecca), Riley and Bennett of Roblin, MB; brother, Ward (Nona) Olson of Calgary, AB; sister, Rhonda (David) Phillips of Lumsden, SK; extended and close family members, Deb and Michael Sutcliffe of Yorkton, SK, Ron and Sharon Realini of Kimberly, BC.
Services will be held at a later date when restrictions permit.
In lieu of flowers a donation in Graeme’s memory may be made to the Parkinson’s Canada – 110B-2103 Airport Drive, Saskatoon, SK, S7L 6W2, https://www.parkinson.ca/getinvolved/waystogive or Roblin Golf Course (Improvement Fund) – Box 31 Roblin, MB R0L 1P0 or Trust Fund for Ron Olson c/o Sunrise Credit Union Box, 1023, Roblin, MB R0L 1P0.
Sneath–Strilchuk-Roblin Chapel
www.sneathstrilchuk.com
