John Allen Olson

John A. Olson, of Oshkosh, passed into the presence of the Lord on October 23, 2026, at the age of 87. John was born on June 7, 1939, the son of Anton Olson and Amy (Johnson) Olson.

John grew up in Chicago, IL before his parents moved to Bailey's Harbor, WI. He graduated in 1957 from Gibraltar High School in Fish Creek, WI. John served in the United States Marine Corps from 1957 to 1960. On June 9, 1962, he married Mary Jane (Gerdman). Together they raised three sons Grant, William and Charles.

John started a fulfilling career in education as a principal in Kewaskum. He then moved to the Oshkosh Area School District, teaching 4th grade at Franklin Elementary from 1969 to 1996, where he positively impacted countless young lives until his retirement.

John was active with his sons in Indian Guides, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, and Young Life. He was also known for his enthusiasm for trains, coin and stamp collecting, meteorites, and refurbishing vintage cash registers. He enjoyed playing games with his family, taking long walks, traveling, and admiring the beauty of God's creation.

John is survived by his wife, Mary Jane; sons, Grant (Deb) Olson and Charles (Tricia) Olson; grandchildren, Elisabeth Olson, Lauren (Matt) Knapp, Malinda (Dave) Beck, Annelise (Ian) Troll, William Olson, Lydia Olson, Hannah (Joshua) Peterson, Emma Olson and Timothy Olson; great-grandchildren, Emma Knapp, Ellie Knapp, Ethan Knapp, Emmett Knapp, Margaret Beck, June Beck, Clara Troll, Bennett Troll, Charlie Troll; and sister-in-law, Jeanne Olson.

In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his son, William "Bill" Olson; great-granddaughter, Lila Beck; and brother, Richard Olson.

Per John's wishes, cremation will take place and no formal service will be held. We extend our deepest gratitude to the wonderful staff at Bethel Home for their devoted care during John's final days.