Carl B. Olson

Carl was born on July 24th, 1934, to Carl and Signe Olson in Minneapolis, where he grew up with his siblings Marion, Bernice, and Keith. As a child, Carl enjoyed playing basketball in a church league and had a memorable championship year. He also loved riding his Vespa scooter before getting his first car. During his late teens, Carl spent time bodybuilding with his close friend, Frank.

Carl's love for the outdoors began early at his uncles farm in Wisconsin, where he dreamed of becoming a farmer. However, those dreams shifted when Carl enlisted in the Navy. He served as a Seabee for three years and continued in the Army Reserve for a total of 27 years. Throughout his military career, Carl earned awards for humanitarian aid, achievement, and good conduct. He was also a proud member of the Free Masons.

In 1956, a simple wrong number led to Carl meeting the love of his life. Roxanne received a call intended for the previous residents, and her friend Ruthie invited Carl and his friend over. After a brief awkward moment at the door, Carl met Roxanne, and he immediately knew he wanted to pursue her, especially after trying the chocolate chip cookies Roxanne and Ruthie had just baked. A year later, on June 8th, 1957, they married. Carl was 23, and Roxanne was 20. Their love story, born out of that unexpected moment, lasted a lifetime.

Carl and Roxanne went on to have two children, Steve and Tracy, and later welcomed five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. After his Navy service, Carl worked as a plasterer and later for Control Data and Opportunity Partners, from which he retired in 1998.

Carl and Roxanne created a home filled with love, where family vacations, holidays, and simple everyday moments taught their children the values of care and togetherness. One of Carl's favorite traditions was attending the State Fair, where he always made sure to buy a Peters Weiners hot dog, a family favorite that became a source of lighthearted teasing for years. They also enjoyed milkshakes at the Dairy Building, Tom Thumb donuts, the Sky Ride, visiting machinery hill, and the animal barns together.

Throughout his life, Carl had a passion for cars, including a ’48 Chevy Club Coupe, ’55 Buick convertible, '60 Sunbeam ’67 Ford Econoline truck, Chevy El Camino, Ford Mustang, ’87 Pontiac Fiero, and more. He loved taking care of them, washing and waxing them often, and even had the honor of driving the Aquatennial Queen in the 1955 parade.

Carl also had a knack for working with his hands. He cared deeply for his yard, rock garden, and flowers, and was always ready to help with projects around the house. Whether it was building a patio or caring for Roxanne by taking on the "honey-do" list, Carl gave of himself in every way. In addition to his work and hobbies, Carl and Roxanne enjoyed traveling. From family road trips across the country, to memorable vacations to places like Hawaii, Italy, and Jamaica, they embraced new experiences together. They also spent many years square dancing, where everyone enjoyed their coordinating outfits. Carl was an avid golfer and bowler, enjoying these activities with friends and later with Roxanne. He also loved puzzles, watching golf, and cheering on the Minnesota Twins and Vikings.

Carl’s role as a grandfather was something he took great pride in. He formed strong bonds with his grandchildren, always supporting and encouraging them in whatever they did. His love and kindness made a lasting impact on their lives.

Throughout his life—whether as a soldier, husband, father, grandfather, worker, or friend—Carl fully invested in everything he did. He gave his love, shared his laughter, and was always there for those around him. Carl had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel seen and appreciated, asking how they were doing and truly caring about the answer.

Carl had an infectious joy for life, embracing each moment with positivity and making the most of every situation. He knew how to find the silver lining, and his happiness was contagious to everyone around him.

In the past five years, we saw Carl's physical health decline, but his kind demeanor and sense of humor never wavered. He remained a steady presence for his family. Roxanne took extra special care of Carl the last few years as Carl’s mobility slowed. In his final days, Carl was surrounded by the people who loved him most, his greatest comfort. Though his chair may now sit empty, the room is filled with the love and memories of a life well-lived. His example will continue to inspire all of us.

Preceded by his parents, Carl & Signe Olson; siblings, Marion (Fred) Fuehrer, Bernice Olson & Keith (Joan) Olson. 

Survived by his Wife of 67 years Roxanne; Children Steven (Diane) and Tracy (Brian); Grandchildren, Jeffrey (Alisen), Meghan (Brad), Lindsay (Quinton), Sonia and Justin; Great grandchildren, Adaline, Scarlett, & Sophia. 

Carl had a wonderful life, and he will be deeply missed. We love you, Carl.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Animal Humane Society.