Jan Reid Olson

Jan Reid Olson, affectionately known as JR, was born on May 16, 1935, in La Crosse, Wisconsin to Earl and Earline Dale Olson. He peacefully passed away on May 2, 2025, in Sun City, Arizona, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that touched the lives of many throughout his years.

A proud member of the United States Army, JR exemplified dedication and service. His life was marked not only by his commitment but also by a deep-rooted love for nature and the outdoors. JR was an active member of a sportsman club, embracing the joys of hunting and fishing. He particularly cherished golfing and traveling with his wife, sharing many adventures and creating lasting memories together.

JR’s personality shone brightly through his enthusiasm for watching sports games, excluding basketball. He was known for his gentle demeanor and kind spirit, with friends and family often remarking on his compassion for others. Among his proudest accomplishments was moving cattle at the farm each spring, an activity that reflected his cowboy spirit. Furthermore, he fondly remembered the sense of achievement from securing a newspaper route in his childhood and saving diligently to buy his first bicycle.

In 1984, he married his wife, Shirley (Sjuggerud) and together they enjoyed a beautiful partnership that lasted over 40 years. JR's devotion to his family and his commitment to nurturing strong relationships created a warm and loving environment, which has left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

He is survived by his children, Keri Hatlestad, her family, Griffin (Katie), Morgan (Efren), Noah and Maxwell Luque; Susan (Jeff) Carlson, and their family Reid (Kyrsten), Sydney (Paul), and Olivia Kornaus; Leslie Boudreau and her family Blake Boudreau and Melissa (Jonah) Tczap; stepchildren, Jeff (Steph) and their family Ashley, Jeremy (Makayla) and Laken Gilbertson; Lisa (Scott) Hegenbart and their family, Thad Lee, Jessica (Brady) Luka and Ada Bornhauser, and Aaron Hegenbart; Kristen Newman and her family Derek (Kelsey) Kennedy and Knox Newman; Alexis Gilbertson (Ralph) and Hudson Mountain; Emily (Paul) and Lucy Boehm; In-Laws, Ann Thompson, Floyd (Pat) Sjuggerud, Mary (Doug) Dale, and Sharon (Scott) Jones. He is also survived by many lifelong friends. 

He is preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Tim Hatlestad; step-son, Jason Gilbertson; In-Laws, Ken Thompson, Jackie McCurdy, and LaVerne Sjuggerud.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a viewing on May 16, 2025, beginning at 10:00 AM, followed by a funeral service and lunch. All services will be held at Coulee Region Cremation Group located at 133 Mason St, Onalaska, WI 54650.

JR’s passing marks the end of a remarkable life filled with love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for both the simple and profound moments. He will be remembered for the warmth he brought into the lives of those around him and the everlasting legacy of kindness he leaves behind.

Until We Meet Again.