Mel Olson

Melvin “Mel” Olson, age 96, passed away Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at the Herbert and District Integrated Health Facility, Herbert, SK. George Melvin Olson was born February 22, 1922 to Emil & Freda Olson in Hyas, SK. Mel grew up on the family farm with six siblings.

Mel married Anna Margaret Simes on February 26, 1949 in Yorkton, SK. Together they raised two children, Ellie and Len. In the summer of 1952, Mel & Margaret moved their young family to Flin Flon, MB where Mel worked as a mechanic for the Hudson Bay Mining and Smelting Company. Mel very much enjoyed his time in the North — fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, and all taking part in all the activities the Great North has to offer.

Mel & Margaret moved to the Swift Current area in 1979, where he drove a fuel truck for many years and enjoyed meeting the farmers and ranchers in the area. They spent many years travelling all over Canada and the United States. When you went to visit them at their home, they would tour you all over Southern Saskatchewan, they were the best tour guides.

As the years passed, Mel took an interest in scroll sawing. He would cut out designs and Margaret would paint them, they were a good team. He gave many of his projects to family and friends to enjoy.

Mel leaves behind to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 69 years, Margaret Olson; his children, Ellie Olson (Chilliwack, BC) and Len (Debbie) Olson (Flin Flon, MB); his grandchildren, Scott Derksen, Darrin (Christy) Derksen, Wanda (Dallas) Klarenbach, Dean (Susan) Olson, and Michael (Yfrelle) Olson; his twelve great-grandchildren; and by many nieces and nephews. Mel was predeceased by his granddaughter, Connie Derksen; his parents, Emil & Freda Olson; and by all six of his siblings.

Mel was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. He touched everyone in a special way, we all have many fond memories of him and he will be missed by all.

Rest in peace, Dad. 

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