June 30, 1916-April 2, 2006
Norman E. Olson, 89, of Detroit Lakes, died Sunday, April 2, 2006 at North Ridge Care Center in New Hope, Minn.
Norman Edward Olson was born to Edward and Bessie Linquist Olson on June 30, 1916 in Tintah, Minn. As a young boy, he moved with his family to Morris, Minn., and he graduated from high school there. In 1936, he went to work for the Civilian Conservation Corps near the north shore of Lake Superior.
In January 1942, Norman entered into the U.S. Army, and he fought in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. After being honorably discharged from the Army in 1945, Norman attended watch-making school in Minneapolis. He married Esther Gall in Annandale, Minn. In 1952, they established Olson's Jewelry in Ada, Minn. He continued in Fertile and Mahnomen, Minn., before finally starting a branch in Detroit Lakes, in 1964. The store is still in operation today, under the name Pure Gold. In 1975, Norman and Esther moved to Big Cormorant Lake near Detroit Lakes; Esther died in 1998. Norman continued living there until October 2004, when he moved to the Minneapolis area.
Norman had a great love of life and people. He continued to work on watches and clocks until the age of 87. Norman enjoyed pheasant, duck and deer hunting as well as fishing. He also liked the Twins and playing cards. Norman was a long time member of Zion Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes.
ADVERTISEMENT
Surviving him are his daughter, Charlotte (Jim) Ringler of Osseo, Minn.; son Scott Olson, Detroit Lakes; five grandchildren; and five great grandchildren.
Preceding Norman in death were his wife, Esther; parents; three sisters; and two brothers.
Minn.
Friends may call from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, April 5, at West-Kjos Funeral Home, Detroit Lakes. Visitation will Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the start of funeral services, which are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, April 6, at Zion Lutheran Church, Detroit Lakes, with the Rev. Dan. C. Abrahams officiating.
Casket bearers will be Jeff Albers, Dana Albers, Terry Albers, Kevin Albers, Michael Dickey and Blair Moeller. Burial will be in the Minnesota State Veterans Cemetery, Camp Ripley, Minn.
West-Kjos Funeral Home, Detroit Lakes, is handling arrangements.
