Richard LRichZ Olson
Richard “Rich” Olson, 81, was born December 20th, 1939, in Hettinger North Dakota to Rose Wandler and Wriley Irwin. He passed away peacefully Friday October 1st, 2021, in his Eureka home with his
family at his side. Rich and Linda were married in Daglum, North Dakota on December 4th, 1960, and moved to Eureka, CA shortly after where they have resided ever since. Rich worked as a laborer/carpenter for many years for various people. He joined Eureka Construction working for Pete Gill until 1974 when he started RAO Construction. Rich was a hard-working dedicated man with the vision of building his company to what it is today. In 2002 He was named Construction person of the year with Humboldt Builders Exchange as well as the lifetime Achievement award in 2016 and the 2011 contractor of the year with the Ingomar Club. His legacy and work ethic continue through his three boys and grandchildren. He was a member of Eureka Faith Center and the Eureka Elks Lodge. Rich was an amateur boxer at the age of 21, enjoyed golf, and stock car racing but really kept himself busy with work. From his love of racing Rich decided to pave the track at Redwood Acres Raceway and promoted racing for 26 years.Rich was survived by Linda Olson, his Wife of nearly 61 years; three sons, Rick (Suzi) Olson and step daughter Kasidy; Randy (Debbie) Olson and their children Randy Jr, Lacey and great granddaughter Sophia; Rusty Olson and his children Shelby, great grandson Laykin, Richard “Al” Olson II, great granddaughter ember, Rusty Jr, Alexus, Ricky, Royce, Jaylee, Vinitee and Halle; three sisters, Veronica “Ronnie” Ward, Paulette Papageorge, Pat Nichols; one brother Merle Olson; sister in law Renae Heidt,
and numerous nieces and nephews. Many Friends he considered close family; Bill and Terri O’Neill, The Marcelli Family, Ralph and Dorene Egerer, and Londa (Coy) and Tom Moore.He was preceded in death by his parents Rose and Einar Olson; Mother and Fatherin-law Emil and Frances Wendling; Brother-in-law Tony Heidt; four brothers, Marvin Wilson, Jim Wilson, John Olson, and Larry Olson; three sisters, Mona Holt, Charlotte Horn and Martha Knorr; and good friends Gary Coy and Mercer “Old Man” Lawson Sr. The Olson family would like to give a special thanks to Kristina Ellsworth and Grandson Al for all their help allowing us to keep Rich at home and comfortable during his last few days. In lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations be made to Redwood Fields for an honorary plaque for Rich’s involvement with youth sports. Donations can be mailed to PO Box 327 Cutten, CA 95534. A memorial will be held on Sunday October 24th, 2021, from 2pm to 5pm at Old Growth Cellars located at 1945 Hilfiker Lane, Eureka, CA.