James Richard Olson

James “Jim” R. Olson, 94, longtime resident of Shoreview, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2026.

Preceded in death by 1st Wife Phyllis ( nee Ackerson), and 2nd wife Phyllis (Loftus) brother Thomas, and grandson Owen Loftus.

Jim is survived by longtime partner Virginia (Deedee) Boisen, his children Jill (Alan) Laughlin, David (Kay) Olson, Tammy (Tina Marie) Taylor, Tom(Jackie Painter) Loftus, Daniel (Susan) Loftus. Grandchildren Drew and Zachary Laughlin, Ryan Zurek, Lyndsay and Chris Long, Ryan Soderquist and Nicole Neal.

Jim was born on June 6, 1931, in Fargo North Dakota to Joel and Alta Olson. A graduate of Fargo High School, Jim entered the US Navy and proudly served during the Korean War. Following his military service, Jim attended the University of North Dakota and earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Business.

Jim worked more than 30 years at Honeywell primarily in materials sourcing and retired in 1992.

Jim was dedicated and actively involved in community affairs. He was a member of the Boy Scouts having earned his Eagle Scout certificate and later as a scoutmaster. He rose to President of the local Jaycees organization.

Jim was elected to the Shoreview Planning Commission and served from 1965 until 1969. He was elected to Shoreview City Council and served from 1969 through 1975. He was then elected to a 2 year term as Mayor. He served as Mayor from 1975 to 1977 and later returned to the City Council from 1994 to 1996.

Jim was best known for his passion for fitness and waterskiing. He was a competitive trick and slalom skier and often found in or behind his Ski Nautique on Lake Owasso. He continued skiing into his late 80s earning numerous awards. He also enjoyed bicycling and completed several Minnesota Ironman Rides.

A skilled woodworker, Jim transformed his garage into a workshop where he crafted furniture for friends and family and generously helped others with projects that reflected his precision and care.

Celebration of Jim’s life will be held Monday, May 18, 2026 at Mueller Memorial 4738 Bald Eagle Avenue, White Bear Lake starting at 4:00 pm with a service at 6:30 pm.

Jim will be remembered for his energy, craftsmanship, and enduring love of sport, family, and community.