Douglas James Olson passed away in Salina, KS on Friday, October 18, 2024, at the age of 72. He was born July 1, 1952, to parents Alfred and Carol Olson at Bethany Hospital in Kansas City, KS. He graduated from Salina South High School (class of 1971) and attended Kansas Technical Institute in Salina, KS becoming a surveyor by trade afterward. He married, Sally Ann (Shrader) Olson on July 1st, 1978, at the First United Methodist Church of Abilene, KS. They had two children and laid down roots in Salina, KS for over 40 years.
Always a hard worker, he had a career with the Kansas Department of Transportation, assisted with daily operations of the family gift shop, Carol's Decor, and later an antique store, Sally's Antiques, on top of raising two children. He was an active citizen - he was very involved with the Saline County GOP and ran for State Representative and City Commissioner several times. Doug also was a committed board member of his church, Immanuel Lutheran.
Doug will be remembered as a hardworking, kind, man of conviction. He was a loyal husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sally Olson; his parents, Alfred, and Carol Olson; his in-laws, Charles and Mary Jane Shrader of Abilene, KS; and his brother, David A. Olson. Doug is survived by his sons, Russell of Salina, KS; Matthew of Mesquite, TX; his daughter-in-law, Hannah Olson and grandchildren, Kole, and Jolie; brother and sister-in-law, Dean and Carol of Lee’s Summit, MO; and many nieces, nephews, and good friends.
A memorial service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 255 S. 7th Street, Salina, KS 67401, on Saturday, October 26th at 10:30 am with Rev. Jacqueline Thornton officiating. Memorials may be designated to Immanuel Lutheran Church of Salina, in care of Ryan Mortuary, 137 North Eighth Street, Salina, KS 67401.