David E. Olson

David Erland Olson, 83, of Forest Lake, Minnesota, went to be with his maker on April 18, 2026. Born in Two Rivers, Wisconsin to Lynn and Eleanor Olson, he is preceded in death by his sister Phyllis Knafla, twin brother Daniel Olson, and brother Richard Olson. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Marilynne, and his two sons; Eric Olson (Patricia) of Stillwater, Minnesota, and Barry Olson (Sara) of Kalamazoo, Michigan. He also left behind six amazing grandchildren: Hannah, Jacob (Adreonia), Lucas (Danielle), Samuel, Sophie, and Lucy Olson. He was immensely proud of each of them.

Dave spent his life committed to his family, his work, and his community. Prior to his vocation, he served honorably in the United States Air Force, serving in active duty from 1960 through 1964, and then as an Air Force Reservist with the 934th Tactical Airlift Wing until 1993, where he retired as a Senior Master Sergeant. He was a sheet metal worker for much of his career. He was committed to the values of organized labor, belonging to Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 Union in St. Paul, Minnesota after studying as an apprentice, and moving through the trade to becoming a journeyman. In 1983, he became a Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Inspector for the City of St. Paul and was promoted to Senior Mechanical Inspector in 1990. He remained in this role until his retirement in 2005.

One of Dave’s greatest joys in life was learning. He engaged in extensive coursework through the military throughout his tenure. He took numerous online courses, explored all aspects of religion, science, politics, leadership, science and the like. He returned to formal education later in life and earned his bachelor’s degree in professional education through the National Labor College. This led to him teaching others as well, teaching mechanical code to sheet metal students until 2022. He always encouraged his family to pursue degrees and beamed with pride as his family achieved many collegiate degrees over the years.

Dave was extremely passionate about his Masonic family. He spent 50 years as a Mason, serving two Minnesota Lodges (Minnehaha Lodge #165 and Forest Lake Lodge #344), and rose through leadership to ultimately serve as the Grand Master of the state of Minnesota’s Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in 2013. His commitment to the teachings of Masonic life was ever present, and one of his greatest joys up to his death.

He believed in lifting others up at every turn. He spent numerous years engaged in the Boy Scouts of America, beginning by helping his youngest son’s troop, and moving into various roles as a volunteer over the years. He was a committed Christian and a member of Elim Lutheran Church in Scandia, Minnesota. Service to others was a core belief, and something that Dave just did; without any expectations of anything in return. He was a lifelong blood donor, donating 60 gallons in a lifetime! As a final act, Dave generously donated his body to the University of Minnesota Anatomy Bequest Program, which supports high quality education for future health professionals and continued advancements in medical care through research. He was a proud son, husband, father, grandpa, brother, and friend. He will be deeply missed and was truly loved.

A Masonic Service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Friday, June 5, 2026 at Mattson Funeral Home, 343 North Shore Drive, Forest Lake. The family will greet friends from 4:00-6:00 p.m., following the service at the funeral home. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, June 6, 2026 at Elim Lutheran Church 20971 Olinda Trail North, Scandia. The family will greet friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Interment at Fort Snelling National Cemetery will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the University of Minnesota Masonic Cancer Center, https://mnmasoniccharities.org/.