Donald Olson “Don” age 94, a lifelong resident of New Milford, CT, died on Thursday, September 19 after a short illness. Born on August 25, 1930, he was the son of the late Arthur & Mildred (Anderson) Olson. He proudly served as a Sergeant in the Marines during the Korean War, earning an honorable discharge in 1952.
Don is survived by his beloved wife Clarissa (Thomas) Olson and sister Lorraine Schultz (Edward) of New Milford. He was predeceased by his siblings Robert Olson (Kathy), Gerald Olson (Zita), Kenneth Olson, Barbara Carlson (Bobby) and Betty Coles (Jay). Don was a dedicated family man to his four children Donald Olson (Laura) of New Milford, Kaye Collins (Paul) of Roxbury, Kimberly Pokrywka (Albert) of Roxbury, Brenda Buckley (Chris) of New Milford, ten grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, and two great-great grandchildren.
A master craftsman, Don ran Olson Brothers Builders with his brother Ken, constructing nearly 100 homes in the New Milford area. His passion for building was matched by his love for golfing, working on his Model A, attending local car shows and watching NASCAR. He was a member of the St Peter’s Masonic Lodge #21, Good Shepard’s Lodge #65 and the VFW Post 1672.
Don and his wife Clarissa, commonly know as Spanky, shared 71 wonderful years of marriage, often escaping the cold winters to enjoy their home in Cocoa Beach, FL. His life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and the joy of family and community.
As we remember Don, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with laughter, love, and countless cherished memories. His legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.
A military burial service will be held on Saturday, September 28th at 10am at St. Francis Xavier Cemetery in New Milford, CT
Immediately following, a memorial celebration will be held at Hurlburt Park Pavilion at 18 Apple Lane in Roxbury, CT. Friends and family are welcome to join.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
I did not know you. I went to school with Kim and Kaye. I met them in the 5th grade, and it was pleasurer going to school with them. They are great ladies, and I feel they are that way because of you and your wife. Kaye and Kim, I am so sorry, I know that you had a wonderful dad