Obituary of Lavern C. Olson

Lavern Carl Olson, 90, of 23 Tew St. Jamestown, died Wednesday February 1, 2012 in WCA Hospital. He was born December 9, 1921 in Jamestown the son of Carl and Mathilda "Tillie" Jacobson Olson. Lavern graduated from Jamestown High School where he ran track and was a graduate of Alfred State University. Prior to retirement, he worked at Marlin Rockwell/TRW. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church, he directed the Marlin Rockwell Girls Chorus putting on many productions, the choir at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church for 19 years, and briefly at Bethel Lutheran Church. Lavern sang for many weddings and in many groups, but he really enjoyed his quartets. He was an avid golfer in various leagues, and he and his brother Bob made the newspaper for finishing first overall in a tournament. He was a roller skater and ballroom dancer, and enjoyed hand crafts, building models, wood carving, string art, traveling with the senior travelers, and listening to music and talking books. Surviving are a daughter, Judy L. Olson of Dunkirk; a son, Terry L. Olson of Jamestown; a sister, Eleanor Swanson of Jamestown; two nieces, Peggy (Ronnie) Schnars; Susan (Edward) Marchincin; a nephew, Steve (Julie) Swanson; two great nieces, Christina Emborski and Anastasia Swanson; and cousins, Karin and Don Hook; Steve Hook; and Kirsten and Mike Bishop and family. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Lois Carlson Olson whom he married April 19, 1952 and who died May 6, 1990; and a brother, Bob Olson. A Memorial Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Sunday in the Lind Funeral Home. The Rev. Alison L. Leitzel, pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church will officiate. Burial will be in Sunset Hill Cemetery. Visitation will not be observed. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 556 East Second St. Jamestown, NY 14701; or to a charity of choice.