Obituary of Richard Morris Olson

Richard Morris Olson October 21, 1942 - November 18, 2016 Ricky O has croaked, drawn the black ace, gone for the big one, and is checking out the marble orchard. Not a man of convention, these are just a few of the ways he wanted to share the news of his passing. Rick was born in Blairmore, Alberta and often shared interesting and hilarious stories of his early life. Working a variety of jobs, he eventually made his way to BC, where he met the love of his life Marilyn. Rick will be remembered for his long time employment with Pepsi. He volunteered with the Cranbrook and District Ambulance Association and the Cranbrook Fire Department until earning a permanent position with the Fire Department in 1977. A lover of the outdoors, Rick's calendar was filled with hunting, fishing, and of course trips to the berry patch. He played hockey and softball over the years and always had time for a game of cards or pool. He enjoyed yard sales, and he had a good eye for collectables, which led to an appearance on Canadian Pickers. Rick is survived by his children Tammy Olson (Tim), Kevin Olson (Christy), Melody Wilford (Darren) and Dennis Olson, his companion Kathleen Atkinson and her family, his grandchildren Brian Mclarnon, Justin Grandberg (Sarah), Jessica (Nick), Jaik, Jackson and Blake Olson, Dempsey, Emily (Jon) and Nolan Wilford, great grandchildren Alaia, Naythaniel and Marcus Grandberg, Caden Mclarnon and Navida Freheit, his brother Chuck (Donna) Olson and sister Betty Walmsley, his brothers and sisters-in-law Ron (Darlene), Mike (Wendy) and Bob Turner as well as many nieces and nephews. Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife of over 50 years Marilyn, his father Cecil Olson, mother Alice Rachel, sister Lorraine and his uncle Charlie Germain. Richard will be greatly missed by friends, family and his Firefighting brothers. Although Rick specified no service, we would like to invite you to drop by the Cranbrook Senior Centre, 125 - 17th Avenue South, between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on Monday, November 28, 2016 for a casual get-together to share stories and memories in celebration of Rick and Marilyn. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The Firefighters Burn Fund at burnfund.org or to the Muscular Dystrophy Association at www.muscle.ca. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com