Kevin L Olson

Kevin L Olson

June 12, 1949 - July 27, 2026

Obituary

LODI - Kevin Olson passed away on July 27, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.


Kevin is survived by his beloved wife, Ellen; his children, Becky Schueller, Rachel Olson, and Kyle Olson (Colleen); his sister, Kristi O’Leary (Charlie); his grandchildren, Chloe, Hunter, MacKenzie, Bryce, and Logan; and his great-grandchildren, Ryker, Emersyn, Oaklynn, and Henleigh. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Olson and Kathleen Harder.


Kevin grew up on Madison's east side and graduated from La Follette High School in 1967. A master electrician by trade, Kevin dedicated much of his career working for Nickles Electric and State of Wisconsin as an electrical inspector. He was a proud member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW Local 159) for more than 50 years.


Kevin was known for his remarkable ability to fix just about anything. “The Jack of All Trades” was always willing to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors. His generosity, practical wisdom, and willingness to help others will always be remembered.


Nothing brought Kevin more joy than spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed playing cards, especially Sheepshead and Cribbage. He loved bowling in the local league with family and friends for many years. He also had a passion for photography and loved capturing special moments.


One of Kevin's favorite places was the family cottage near Castle Rock Lake, where he had been making memories since he was a teenager. Whether relaxing on the deck or spending time on the water with the pontoon, the cottage was where he felt most at home.


As an outdoorsman, Kevin treasured hunting whitetail deer with family. He also found joy fly fishing for trout on Dell Creek.  He was a lifelong racing enthusiast, equally happy watching midget races in Sun Prairie or cheering on his favorite NASCAR drivers.


Often referred to as Ole and Lena, the couple shared a love of travel and adventure together. They enjoyed spontaneous weekend getaways, often letting an old paper gazetteer decide where the road would take them.


In quieter moments, Kevin could often be found listening to Wisconsin Public Radio, especially Whad'Ya Know? with Michael Feldman and The Larry Meiller Show.

 

Kevin will be remembered for his kindness, his sense of humor, and the love he had for his family. He leaves behind many happy memories that will be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

 

Honoring Kevins wishes there will be no formal services held, the family welcomes cards, phone calls, or visit from those who wish to share their condolences or memories.


In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Reach Out Lodi and Wisconsin Public Radio, organizations that were meaningful to Kevin.

 

For more information and online condolences please visit www.gundersonfh.com


Gunderson Lodi

Funeral & Cremation Care

157 S. Main St.

(608) 592-3201


Events

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AO
A Memorial Tree was planted for Kevin L Olson
Other •
We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ Gunderson Funeral Home - Lodi
DP
David Peck
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Vicki and I were very sorry to hear about Kevin. We hope all of your great memories will comfort you.
GP
Gwen Peirce
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I had the privilege of knowing Kevin for many years. Way over 50. So many fun times at the cottage sitting on the porch and around the campfire late at night! We all fought for the bunk house!! Memories that i will cherish for years. I'm sure Kevin and Jim are up there discussing the world. Rest is peace my friend!! Gwen Peirce
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Jennine Duelge
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Kevin was/is my oldest cousin and is so very dear to me/us. Every single memory I have is filled with joy, happiness and so much fun! From bringing us all kinds of treats as kids to playing cards/games, to sharing time with him and Ellen and the family-all beautiful memories. Kevin is/was a wonderful and kind man. He will be deeply missed. All our love to you. Jennine and family ❤️
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Richard Dahl
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Kevin was my next door neighbor while in high school attending LaFollette. One of the fun things we did was hook up telephones between our houses and we would carry on about all topics. i attended the Sun Prairie midget races with him and his Dad Marv. We played cards often with his mother Kathleen. We got into a bit of trouble now and then and Marv would take his stub of a forefinger and pound it on Kevin's chest with a warning. It made me laugh. Marv called him Kiver. I was ahead of Kevin so onto the UW while he finished high school. I lost touch during that time and moved to Chicago after graduating UW. Fun memories. Richard Dahl
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Anonymous
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Kevin, you have always been very special to me. We are family! Our families go way back to Busse Street.

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