Obituary of Robert Olson

Age 95, of St. Paul. Passed on January 24, with his family nearby. He was preceded in death by his daughter Judy Sheaffer and leaves behind his wife Mildred; son Dr. Edward (Jeanie) Olson and daughter Nancy Berget; 8 grandchildren, Dan, Heidi, Kristen, Tony, Billy, Tom, Julie and Ted; many nieces, nephews and friends. Robert was born in St Paul, MN to Nils Gustaf Olson and Elizabeth Swanson and was a graduate of Johnson High School. Bob enlisted during WWII and fought mainly in Italy and North Africa. Skilled in stenography, he became an assistant to a general, ultimately documenting his experiences with photos. Upon discharge, he moved back to St. Paul where he married the love of his life, Mildred. During his 41 year career at Burlington Northern Railroad, they became self-taught builders and built 6 homes, one in which they raised their family. He was a loving father and shared his passions with his children. He loved photography, and his children went on to share that interest-Edward winning photography awards, Nancy as an art director and Judy with her family. He also loved the great American West and took his family on yearly road trips to national parks. Bob always put his family first. He helped his son Edward build their family home, he acted as a best friend and confidante to his daughter Nancy and after his daughter Judy passed away, he acted as a father figure for his grandchildren He was a kind and gentle man who showed his strength through his actions, not his words. Married 69 years, they were a team. When Millie became weak and began to lose her way, she always remembered her "Bob". She would talk to him like nothing had changed, as usual he was the rock. Words are not enough to thank all the amazing caregivers who have touched our lives over the last few years.