Gregory Eugene Olson, 59

Greg Olson was born to Joyce and Harvey Olson on May 18, 1952, died May 13. He lived his entire life on the farm in Gilman township, graduating as co-valedictorian from Spring Valley High School. He graduated from University of River Falls, Wisconsin with a degree in art.

During his high school years he helped on the farm, but also began a photography business, Box 90 Studio, with Wayne Stockman, a lifelong friend. They shot weddings, graduation and family photos for many years.

Later he and his Dad worked in construction, Olson and Olson Construction, doing all sorts of building projects, with emphasis on cabinetry. When Harvey died, Greg continued working with wood, and other mediums, such as Corian and steel; his talent in carving appearing in homes, churches all across the country. He created beautiful carved memorial pieces, using numerous kinds of wood. Some of those appear in English Lutheran, Our Savior's, Lutheran, Gilman Lutheran, and St. John 's in Spring Valley.

Besides the cabinetry, other unique things were wooden chandeliers, wooden three-story circular staircase, altar rails and baptismal fonts, hutches, bedroom sets, dining room sets, any kind of furniture he was asked to do. Whatever he created was a "one of a kind" treasure. He spent hours on his computer drawing preliminary plans for his clients, and hours carving, gluing and finishing. Greg loved his work and was happiest when he could be busy in his shop.

Greg also had a love for all living things, and a wonderful sense of humor.

Greg was preceded in death by his dad, Harvey; his grandparents, Juel and Ida Julson and Norman and Lillian Olson.

He is survived by his mother, Joyce Olson, many cousins and one aunt.

We will all miss him.

Burial will be at the Gilman Lutheran Cemetery at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 16. Visitation at Spring Lake Lutheran from 10-11 a.m. Services at 11 a.m. at Spring Lake with lunch to follow.

Keehr Funeral Home, Spring Valley, www.keehrfuneralhome.com, is handling arrangements.

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