George M. Olson

George M. Olson, Jr., 88, Grand Forks, died Friday, January 16, 2009 in Valley Memorial Homes Eldercare Center, Grand Forks. George M. Olson, Jr., was born at home in Grand Forks, ND on August 30, 1920 to George and Julia Olson. He spent his early years in Arvilla, ND and graduated from Central High School in Grand Forks in 1938. As a sophomore in high school, George earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended the University of North Dakota until the military called him to service. George married Mern Feick on May 19, 1942 prior to reporting for active duty in the Army Air Corps. During WW II George was a Tech. Sergeant and radio gunner in B-24's and flew 35 missions over Germany, Italy, Poland and the Balkans. He was "missing in action" for several weeks in 1944. After being wounded in action, he received the Air Medal and Purple Heart among other medals and awards during his active duty. On one of his missions he was forced to parachute from his plane, and that parachute became the christening dress for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He has been an active member of Wesley United Methodist Church, serving on numerous committees. He was a long-time member of the VFW, Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, and Elks. After returning from his military service, George was employed by H.H. Herbergers, and then purchased a creamery in Jasper, MN in 1951. In 1965 he sold the creamery and moved the family to Sidney, Montana where he was associated with Farmers Home Supply. A family commitment brought the family back to Grand Forks in 1969 where he was employed by Haugen Feed in Mayville until he retired in 1986. George's greatest gifts in life were his marriage to Mern (67 years), his children and their spouses, his 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. God blessed him richly. George is survived by his wife, Mern; his children, Judith Schalow (Ray), Marshall Olson (Vicki), Cheryl Molenaar (Rick), Denese (Dan)Sollom; 9 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren; a brother, Ardell Olson; nieces, Jennifer Liebelt (Jim) and their children, Janell Scherer (Tom), and their children. He was preceded in death by a sister, Evelyn Robinson, and a grandson, Brock Olson. Memorial Services: 11:00 a.m. Monday, January 19, 2009 in Wesley United Methodist Church, 1600 4th Ave N., Grand Forks. Visitation will be for one hour prior to the service in the church. Military Honors: will be provided by DAV Chapter #2, Grand Forks. Intement: will be in Memorial Park Cemetery in the spring.