Ronald Blaine Olson (1935-2021)

OLSON, BECICKA

Posted By: Ken Wright (email)
Date: 3/26/2021 at 10:35:38

Ronald Blaine Olson, 85, of Cedar Rapids, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, March 24, 2021. Family and friends will gather from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday, March 28, at Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids. Private family inurnment
will be at the Grace Episcopal Church Columbarium.
Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Suzette "Susie"; children, David, Randy (Cindy) and Dan (Jessica); grandchildren, David (Amy) Becicka, Tiffany Olson, Courtney Olson (Adam), Robert (Katie) Olson, Stacy Olson (Dave), Russ Olson, Jo Ann (Jason) Lynch, Tony (Bry) Olson, Kyle Olson, Whitney Olson and Amiee Olson (Mitchell); great-grandchildren, Elli and Ty Becicka, Kaden and Kinsey Reynolds, Lance and Addy Johnson, Sutton and Josey Olson, Jaylee and Jordy Lynch, Cru Olson, and Morgan and Ashton Chesmore; and a brother, David (Judy) Douglas.
Ron was born Oct. 26, 1935, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, the son of Edwin and Lavada (Mendenhall) Olson. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1954, and then served in the US Navy. On Dec. 15, 1956, Ron married Suzette Zirtzman in Cedar Rapids. His amazing work ethic guided him on a nearly 40-year career as a bricklayer for SMI. Ron also volunteered his time and talent with Habitat for Humanity for 10 years.
His family was his most precious gift. Ron was the
go-to guy for help with everything. He could fix anything and offer advice on everything. He loved to be with his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids.
Ron was the patriarch of the Olson racing family. He was their number one fan and toughest critic. Ron loved spending time with them at the track and his presence will continue to be felt on race nights.
In his free time, Ron enjoyed fishing and was a member of the Mount Hermon Lodge in Cedar Rapids.
He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Russell Blaine Olson; and daughter-in-law, Gayle Olson.
Memorial may be directed to the World Wildlife Fund or the charity of the donor's choice.
Please share your support and memories with Ron's family on his tribute wall at www.stewartbaxter.com under obituaries.