Duane Olesen

Duane A. Olesen, 83, Grand Forks, ND, passed away Thursday, January 18, 2024 in Altru Hospital of Grand Forks.

Duane Albert Olesen was born December 5, 1940 in Stratford, IA, the son of Anders and Esther (Scott) Olesen. He was the youngest of 3 boys. He was raised and educated at Mentor, MN and graduated from Mentor High School in 1958. He then worked on the family farm.

Duane married Kay Swenson on July 1, 1961 near Erskine, MN. Duane worked on area farms and later as a meat cutter in Mayville and Larimore, ND. He moved to Grand Forks to work for Coca-Cola, a job he held for more than 35 years until his retirement.

Duane enjoyed playing softball in his younger years. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed playing cards. He was a great supporter of his grandchildrens’ activities, often attending concerts, track meets, and baseball games in Grand Forks. As years passed, he began woodworking. He made in excess of 1,200 angels which he either gave away as gifts or sold at area craft shows.

Survivors include his wife, Kay, Grand Forks; children, Bryan (Senada) Olesen, Coon Rapids, MN, and Deb Colgrove, Grand Forks; grandchildren, Tyler, Bruno (Maddie), Amelia, Darian, and Chanceler; and a brother, Ron (Shirley) Olesen, Deer River, MN; also, many nieces and nephews.

Duane was preceded in death by his brother, Anton (Wilma) Olesen.

Memorial services will be 2:00 PM Monday, January 29, 2024 at Sharon Lutheran Church of Grand Forks. Visitation will be for the hour before the service in the church.