Randolph "Randy" M. Olson

Randy Olson kept his family in the center of his heart, and he was the happiest when he was in their warm company. He loved camping with his kids, cooking delicious dinners, and traveling. When he was with his family and close friends, his face was always alight with a kind-hearted smile.

With a victorious end to the Second World War, thousands of young soldiers returned home and started families of their own. The Baby Boom was quickly underway, and in Montebello, California, Robert Olson and his wife Gladys Larssen were among the many expecting parents. On March 5, 1953 they were blessed with the healthy birth of their son Randolph.

Randy grew up with the company of his two sisters Louise and Heidi. He loved the outdoors, and he often spent his free time camping and exploring. He was an active member of the Boy Scouts, and he proudly attained the rank of Eagle Scout.

Randy was an excellent student. After high school he enrolled at Drexel University, where he graduated with a BS in Chemical Engineering. After he received his degree, Randy moved from Philadelphia to Boston where he worked with W.R. Grace. He married Carol Lange, had son Griffin and eventually took a job in California with Hexcel. Kelcey and Zachary were born in California. Randy's job took him to Grand Rapids, Michigan when Hexcel became part of H.B. Fuller and became the facility manager. He enjoyed his job, and he formed many valuable friendships with his coworkers.

Randy was a devoted father who cherished all the time that he spent with his children. He and his wife Carol were blessed with three wonderful kids, Griffin, Kelcey, and Zachary. Randy was an active father. He enjoyed camping with his kids and cooking family dinners. He loved to travel, and he and his kids visited many different cities throughout the country.

In addition to camping and traveling, Randy enjoyed listening to music and watching movies. Around the house and yard, he was always fixing something. He liked to keep busy, and he was very good with technical skills.

Randy was a good friend, a reliable colleague, and a devoted family man. Among the many people whose hearts he touched, he will be greatly missed and frequently remembered.

Randy died unexpectedly Sunday, October 29, 2006. He is survived by Carol Olson; his children Griffin, Kelcey, and Zachary Olson, all of AZ; parents Robert and Gladys Olson of Florida; sisters Louise (Doug) Hikade, Heidi (Anthony) Christie; nieces Helaina and Amity Christie, all of NJ; and many friends and co-workers. The funeral service will be held on Saturday at 11 AM at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Home - Van't Hof Chapel, 851 Leonard NW, with visitation one hour prior to the service. To sign the online guestbook or leave a memory of Randy, please visit his personal webpage at www.lifestorynet.com.