Terrell L. Olson, Salina passed away peacefully on Thursday December 19, 2024 at the age of 82. Terrell was born in Salina on April 28 1942 to Chester and Dorothy (Gustafson) Olson. He spent his whole life living in Salina. After graduating from Salina High School in 1960 he spent a year at Kansas State University. He ultimately decided school was not for him and came home to be close to the family farm in Smolan. Terrell served in the Army reserves before starting a career in manufacturing. He worked in manufacturing 20+ years with several Salina companies. Upon leaving manufacturing, Terrell was blessed to work the rest of his time doing what he truly loved; farming and ranching on the family farm. He worked the farm until the end; and truly loved every minute.
In his spare time, he was a fixture throughout the state on football fields and basketball courts refereeing the two sports he loved. Truly one of the most respected officials in the state of Kansas, he will be fondly remembered by many who wear the stripes. He was a leader and mentor for countless officials over the years and his influence is still seen on the courts and fields today. For 52 seasons he was on a field or court doing what he loved making an impact on so many young people.
Terrell met the love of his life, Karen Hubbard, while working at the Santa Fe Pizza Hut. Karen was a student at Kansas Wesleyan at the time. From their marriage came two sons, Troy and Travis, who spent many hours on the farm and officiating football and basketball games with their dad.
Terrell was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Keith Olson.
Terrell is survived by his wife of 57 years Karen (Hubbard) of the home; their two sons; Troy (Shandi) Olson of Salina; and Travis (Patsy) Olson of Garden Plain. He is also survived by 4 grandchildren that he absolutely loved and adored; Treytan, Taelyn, Hayden and Dawson. These 4 could do no wrong in grandpa’s eyes.
There will be a visitation on January 3rd from 4:00-8:00 with the family receiving visitors from 4:00 until 6:00 pm at Ryan Mortuary, Salina. Funeral services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church on Saturday, January 4th at 11:00.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Southeast of Saline High School Athletic Department or Garden Plain High School Athletic Department.