Obituary for Vaughn S. Olson at Johnson Funeral Home (2024)

Vaughn Sanford Olson, age 64, passed away unexpectedly on August 2nd, 2024 following a knee surgery. He is sorely missed and will be remembered as a loving father, a generous spirit, and the life of the party.

Vaughn was born to Lyle R. Olson and Audrey G. Olson on April 13th, 1960 in Bismarck, North Dakota. He had a happy childhood following around his older siblings Lyle J. Olson and Denise G. Olson. He enjoyed sports and would often visit the neighbors just to chat and be friendly. As a child, he always knew what he wanted and marched to the beat of his own drum. His years at Jefferson High School were spent living large and street racing when he wasn’t in class. He also met his high school sweetheart, Alice Simpson there and spent many date nights cruising in his ‘73 Monte Carlo. He graduated as part of the class of 1978.

Vaughn entered into the Army right out of high school and was stationed for a short time in Hawaii. Soon after, he and Alice were married and moved back to Minnesota to start their family. This is when Vaughn began his career as an R&D technician and engineer at Control Data, where he made himself an invaluable asset. He also went back to school at Inver Hills for a two year degree. During this time, Erica M. Olson and Vaughn Stephen Olson were born and the family made many wonderful memories together. Twelve years and 14 years later, 2 wonderful additions came in the form of Devin L. Olson and Caitlynn E. Olson. Vaughn was pleased and enthusiastic about his family being complete. He would often videotape his family in their home in Rosemount, MN, capturing everyday moments, asking them questions and narrating the small moments in their lives. He was absolutely enthralled with his children and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Time marched on and Vaughn’s little family grew up. His older children became adults and moved to Florida and Georgia. Vaughn continued to work at General Dynamics until his retirement in 2011. As much as Vaughn enjoyed the challenge of his work, the greatest joy in his life was being a parent and a grandparent. He was blessed with two grandsons, James V. Olson and Dean R. Olson, who he enjoyed spending time with. His favorite place to be was in Fort Myers, Florida during Christmas, surrounded by family. He was a patient and kind father, a wonderful gift giver, and would often go out of his way to make his babies feel important. His preferred titles were “Dad” and “Pops”. Vaughn had a great talent for making laughter and smiles appear on the faces of his loved ones.

Vaughn will be remembered as a man who had a love of classic cars and had an easygoing laugh, who wore smiley face pajamas and Hawaiian shirts, and who gave the best hugs and had a love of the beach. More than anything, he cared about his family and enjoyed their company. He left a lasting impact on those who knew him and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his mother Audrey Olson, his children Erica Olson (Brad), Devin Olson (Anna), and Caitlynn Olson, as well as his grandsons James (12) and Dean (10).

All who are able, please join us for a celebration of life for Vaughn on Saturday, August 31st from 12:00 to 3:00 at 26393 295th Avenue, Preston, MN 55965. This will be a time to casually share memories of Vaughn with family and friends. There will be no formal program. You are invited but not required to wear Hawaiian shirts in his memory. If you are unable to attend, but would like to send a card, please send to 27846 308th Street, Fountain, MN 55935.

Take highway 8 East from Fountain, MN for 4 miles. When you see the turn-off for the Old Barn Resort, do NOT turn that way. Instead, turn left onto 295th Avenue and then again onto the first driveway on the left. There will be a sign that says Wilson-Wendt Farm at the entrance. Please park by the barn on the left.