Thomas Gregory Olson

Thomas Olson, 74, of Atwater, died Monday, December 16, 2024, at CentraCare Rice Memorial Hospital in Willmar.

His funeral service will be 3:00 p.m. Monday, December 23, at Harvey Anderson Funeral Home in Willmar with visitation one hour prior to the service.  Interment will be at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Bird Island at a later date.

Thomas Gregory Olson was born March 27, 1950, in Willmar, Minnesota, the son of Curtis and Leona (Wallenta) Olson.  He grew up on the family farm near Lake Lillian, was baptized, confirmed and married at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Lake Lillian, MN.  He attended school in Cosmos, graduating in 1968.  Tom was a farmer at heart and enjoyed farming the family farm. He also supported his family by operating a turkey breeding company, TJK Inseminating, with two longtime friends. He also hauled peas and sweet corn for Green Giant/Seneca and beets for local farms. In retirement, he bought himself a semi so he could haul grain and work when he wanted and not when the fish were biting.

On December 16, 1972, he married Debra Raitz at St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Lake Lillian.  They made their home on the family farm, where they raised their three children: Noel, Nicole, and Lee.  In 2011, they retired and moved into Lake Lillian, and in 2017, built their home on Diamond Lake near Atwater.  Tom enjoyed working in his shop, hunting, fishing (especially with the grandkids and Lee) and happy hour.  He enjoyed spending time with his family and was always willing to give a helping hand to those in need.

Tom is survived by his wife: Deb; his three children: Noel (Jason) Kautz of Bird Island, Nicole Kavanagh (fiancé, Dan Schell) of Willmar, and Lee Olson of Willmar; five grandchildren: Walker Kavanagh (fiancée, Trenna), Shelby Kavanagh, Tanner Kautz, Parker Kautz, and Gabrielle Kautz; a brother: Greg Olson of Lake Lillian; his beloved pets: Brandy, Whiskey, and Kevin; and his grand-dogs: Copper and Ruger as well as many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother: Glin Olson.

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