Gary L. Olson was born on November 8, 1947, in Brookings, SD, the son of Roy C, and Doris (Mundahl) Olson.

Gary grew up on a farm on the Sioux River between Bruce and Estelline, SD. He received his education in Estelline and was a graduate of the Estelline High School in 1966. After attending a semester of college in Madison and before his marriage, be enlisted the United States Air Force and served for over 26 years of active duty working in electronic repair. During his military career, he served in England, South Korea, Turkey and the Philippines. He also did temporary duty in many countries including, Honduras, El Salvador in the early 1980's. Stateside assignments included San Angelo, TX, Duluth, MN, Charleston and Myrtle Beach, SC, Eglin AFC, FL. After his retirement in 1993, and moving back to Brookings, SD, he was employed at a convenience store for four years and at Daktronics for 12 years.

He enjoyed life, work, and having fun. Gary spent good times with family and friends from around the world.

Gary is survived by: 2 Sons, Brian (Jen) Olson of Fort Mitchell, Alabama and David (Teni) Olson of Aurora, CO; 4 grandkids and 1 great-grandkid; 4 step-grandkids and 3 step-great-grandkids; 2 sisters, Sherry of Sioux Falls, SD and Ricki (Rodney) Kramer of Hartford, SD.

He was preceded in death by: His Father Roy C. Olson and his mother Doris L (Mundahl) Olson (Mundahl).