Sunday, October 6, 2024

Washburn High School

Class of 1956 - In Memory Of

R. Thomas Olson

R. Thomas Olson D.D.S. of Plymouth, Minnesota, age 66, died peacefully at home on Saturday July 24th, with his wife Linda and daughter Erika at his side, after suffering a long and difficult illness.

He was preceded in death by his father, Theodore A. Olson, Ph.D. Survived and lovingly remembered by his wife of 22 years, Linda (Seaman); his children, Erika and Tristan Olson; his step - children, David Fairbairn (Erika) and Josie Reichwald (Paul); three grandchildren; mother, Grace Olson; brothers, Tod Olson (Jackie) and Robert Olson M.D. (Karen), and many nieces and nephews.

Tom was born and grew up in South Minneapolis, and loved to play along the Minnehaha River and ride his bike to swim in Lake Nokomis. He enjoyed playing pick-up hockey and baseball, and was a wonderful skater. He attended Washburn High School graduating in 1960. He served in the Marine Reserve from 1960 to 1964. He graduated from Augsburg College with a double major in history and biology and a minor in chemistry. He taught high school chemistry and biology in western Minnesota and Minneapolis for 3 years. He then graduated from the University of Minnesota Dental School in 1971. He practiced dentistry in Bismarck, N.D. for 16 years and was president of the North Dakota Dental Association for 2 years. He then practiced dentistry for another 15 years in Hamel and Plymouth, Minnesota. Tom was enthusiastic about many things. He flew a Cessna 172 airplane for several years including two wonderful flights to Alaska from Bismarck. He had a great love of history and art and classical music. He knew the life histories and personal facts about politicians, artists and composers. He could tell you just about anything that was happening in any part of the world politically and culturally for any year dating back to the B.C.s. You would have thought he had lived during those times in many countries.

Later in life he took up bike riding on bike trails with all the enthusiasm which he had for his other life interests. He had a great curiosity to learn as much as he could about any topic. He enjoyed snorkeling and birdwatching and knew all the names of the tropical fish and various bird species. He also created wonderful flower gardens. Tom was passionate about sharing his vast knowledge with his children and stepchildren and always had books to share with everyone he met. He enjoyed several trips to Europe including Moscow, Rome, Vienna and Paris. He knew the history of the areas and made it come alive for anyone traveling with him. He will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Memorials may be directed to donor's choice. The funeral will be held at Mount Olivet Lutheran Church, Serley Chapel at 2 PM Wednesday, July 28th, 5025 Knox Ave S., Minneapolis, Minnesota. Followed by a social gathering in the church.
Washburn-McReavy 952-938-9020

Published in the Star Tribune from 7/26/2004 - 7/27/2004.

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