Gerald E. Olsen, of Scandinavia, age 86, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at home with his family by his side.
He was born in West Allis, WI on June 17, 1936 to the late Ejner and Helen (Olson) Olsen. On September 17, 1960 he married Murnell Knutson. Gerald served in the US Air Force for 4 years and then with the Reserves for 8 years. He was a truck driver with Air Specialists Freight Company for many years. In his retirement he enjoyed working at Pick N Save. Jerry graduated from Greendale High School, and after serving in the military he returned to live there for 35 years. He was an active member of Scandinavia Lutheran Church. He volunteered at Hartmann Creek State Park, Iola Historical Society and Iola Car Show. He was a snowbird and volunteered in Arizona at the Val Vista Village. Jerry enjoyed traveling, model trains, square dancing, sports, sun and swimming.
He will be missed by his wife: Murnell; daughters: Annette; and Lori (Wynn) Taube; sister: Beverly Ziese, numerous, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Karl.
Private family services will be held. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The Maple Crest Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
Special thanks to Promedica Hospice and Golden Girls for helping the family with Jerry’s care.