Arthur "Art" Leland Olson

Arthur “Art” Leland Olson passed away on December 24, 2023. He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Betty Olson; his sons Randy (LaDonna) of Sheboygan, WI, and Barry (Brenda) of Coppell, TX; his brother Sherman (Lois) of Bangor, WI; his sister-in-law Olene Olson of La Crosse, WI; an honorary brother, Jim Quinn of La Crosse; and his six grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Ardyce (Ernie) Johnson; and his brothers Vernon (Joyce) and Curt.   He was a beloved husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend who left behind a great legacy.
Art was born to Angus and Florence (Johnson) Olson on July 9, 1934 in Holman, WI. He graduated from Galesville High School in 1953 and attended WWTC following graduation. On August 13, 1955, Art married the love of his life, Betty (Kish) Olson, and they shared a life full of adventure, sweet memories and love together. Art was a proud employee of Trane for 43 years, where he was a member of the 25-year club. He was also the founder and owner of Olson’s Spray Service, where the highlight of his job was working with his sons and making lifelong friendships with his customers.
Art was incredibly loved within the community alongside his wife, Betty, and was fondly called “grandpa” by many close neighbors and friends. Art was an active member at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church for more than 60 years where he served on the church council and volunteered his time on the grounds and building committees. Art also volunteered many years with the American Red Cross bloodmobile and was a charter member of the Lions Club of Mormon Coulee.
Art was an avid sports fan and closely followed high school, college, and professional games. He especially loved going to high school sporting events and supporting the students from the neighborhood and the La Crosse community. He also played on multiple baseball teams throughout the years within the Coulee region – with his talent and passion earning him an opportunity to try out for the Milwaukee Braves. In addition to his passion for sports, Art also loved taking care of his yard and traveling with his wife. Art and Betty had the opportunity to travel to many special places together – and particularly enjoyed their trips to the Great Exuma Islands, several cruise trips and a vacation to Hawaii for their 50th wedding anniversary.
Art was especially proud of his family and the memories they made together, which he made known to everyone around him. His sons, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the pride of his life. Art will be remembered for the deep love he had for his family and friends – especially his wife Betty – along with his warm smile he shared with everyone he encountered.
Art’s family would like to express deep thanks to the many friends, neighbors and health care providers for their love and support throughout the years. You made a difference in Art’s life, and for that we will be forever grateful!
The visitation and remembrance service will be held on Saturday, January 27 at 10 AM and 11 AM (respectively) at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (4141 Mormon Coulee Rd, La Crosse, WI) with a reception/lunch at the church following the service. Memorials may be given to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (gslacrosse.org).  Schumacher-Kish is assisting the family with the arrangements.