Kenneth Olson Obituary

Olson Jr., Kenneth A.

Kenneth A. Olson Jr. passed away on September 25, 2021 surrounded by loved ones. He graduated from Morton High School & earned a degree in Education from Valparaiso University. As a PE teacher, Driver's Education Department Head and Basketball Coach he worked for Chicago Public School system at Goodrich School, Crane High School, and Lane Tech. Crane would be a pivotal place where he met the love of his life, Maria. His 1968 Crane team won the City Championship and finished 3rd place at the State Tournament. While at Lane, Ken became a member of the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association Board and was inducted into the IBCA Hall of Fame as well as the Chicago Public League Coaches Association Hall of Fame. In 1986 he retired from coaching with a record of 312-217. Ken and the late Maria enjoyed 47 years of marriage having three children Ken Olson (Collette) Karen Wolfe (Warren), Kris Olson (Theresa). And 5 grandchildren: Sophie Olson, Julianne Olson, Abbie Wolfe, Christopher Wolfe, and Mia Olson. Other family include his sister Karen (Ed) Matusak, and his brother the late James Olson, and parents the late Kenneth and Irma Mae Olson. In his retirement years, he worked for the National Transportation Safety Department, the Illinois DMV, and substitute taught. Winters they spent on Nettles Island in Florida. Summers, they spent time at Turner Camp and traveled in their RV, sometimes joined by their children and grandchildren visiting friends, family and National Parks, his favorites being Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain National Park. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren in their many events and watching his beloved Cubs, especially in 2016 as they won the National Championship. Ken lived a life full of love and adventure, but more importantly he lived a life in service to others as a teacher and coach. The lives he touched in that capacity continue to impact and influence the lives of others beyond his immediate family and are his true legacy. There will be a Celebration of Ken's Life on Friday, October 8, 2021 from 4-9 PM at the Village Club, 4221 Lawn Ave., Western Springs, IL 60558. The funeral will be Saturday, October 9, 2021 at 10 AM at St. John's Lutheran Church, 505 S. Park Rd., La Grange, IL 60525 (entrance located on corner of Brainard Ave. & 47th St.). Arrangements entrusted to Hallowell & James Funeral Home, Countryside at 708-352-6500 or HJFunerals.com.

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