Stephen Michael Olson

Stephen Michael Olson, 58, of Superior Wisconsin, completed his journey Home on August 25, 2020.

Stephen was born in Duluth, MN on October 4, 1961, to Donald and Mary (Hoffman). He had one beautiful younger sister, Darla, who ensured Stephen lived every one of his last moments quite literally to the fullest (homemade fudge being his most frequent request). Stephen was honored with the title of Dad with the births of his two children, Autumn and Eric, during his first marriage. In 2000, he was married to his second wife, Melissa Olson (Tenlen), in Superior WI.

Stephen worked for Charter NEX Film and his family thanks them for their support. He spent a large portion of his life working as a cross-country truck driver, but was most dedicated to his role as teacher to his children and grandchildren. Among the most impactful moments, he encouraged them to “live simply so that others may simply live.”

Stephen was always ready with one of his legendary, warm bear hugs that seemed to fix everything, or a handful of jokes that would make most people blush. He could out-talk even the likes of his preteen granddaughter, but also had the rare gift to make those around him feel truly listened to. He loved deeply and unconditionally, and had an unshakable faith in God.

Outside of fatherhood, he was deeply devoted to being an epic grandpa, and all of his grandchildren would happily attest to his success in that endeavor. Among the greatest joys in his life, other than his children, he leaves a legacy of immeasurable love in his grandchildren; Angel and Serenity, born to Eric and Catarina, and James and Henry, born to Autumn and Shannon.

True to character, Stephen held firm to his stubborn nature and figuratively flipped the bird to the 5-7 month life expectancy he was given when diagnosed with lung cancer in August 2019. He spent part of his final year traveling with his family to his version of Heaven on Earth: the mountains of West Montana. Exactly one year later, he finally went Home with laughter and love as his heralds. His final moments were spent in his home surrounded by those closest to his heart.

He is preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Melissa Olson; his son, Eric (Catarina) and their children Angel and Serenity; his daughter, Autumn (Shannon) Gallagher and their children James and Henry; his younger sister, Darla and her children Clarissa, Dano and Patrick; and a small mountain of others who were so deeply loved by him.

There will be an intimate gathering of his closest family and friends to celebrate his life. His family requests donations be made to No Kid Hungry in lieu of flowers/cards. Special thanks and love goes to the incredible team of hospice care providers at St Luke’s.

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