Olson, Paul Raymond
May 8, 1967 – May 15, 2021
Paul Raymond Olson, age 54, passed away at sunrise on Saturday, the 15th of May 2021 after enduring a courageous and ceaseless struggle against a rare complication of hereditary kidney disease.
Paul drew inspiration and strength from those who predeceased him, including parents Norman R. Olson and Plainville schoolteacher Mary (Rizza) Olson, and his sister Shirley Jean, whom he held in great reverence.
Paul is survived by his devoted and heartbroken partner of 34 years, James Borck; sister Norma Olson-Bartley and her husband Michael Bartley; and his beloved nieces, Caitlin and Emma Bartley, with whom he cherished a very special bond.
A lifelong resident of Plainville, Paul graduated from Plainville High School in 1985. He went on to work alongside his father at the family business, R.P. Olson and Sons, before thriving at Cigna on the facilities management team.
A calm and thoughtful man, Paul's kindness and positivity powered a megawatt smile. Friends close to him were charmed by his delightfully wry and genial wit. And those even closer knew the fun had just begun if you could coax Paul to break out his childhood accordion!
In his younger days Paul showed horses, but he was forever a dog's best friend - providing shelter and love to the countless rescue dogs he and Jim welcomed into their family during their years together. Paul gave generously of himself to anyone in need, and was a charitable supporter of PBS, the PKD Foundation, and Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Paul Olson will be remembered as someone who lived his life with pride and a determination of spirit, even in the face of hardship. He enriched our lives with his unquestionable love of family, an acceptance of everyone, and a warmth more stellar than the Hawaiian sunsets he loved to visit.
Paul advised us that life should be lived along lines written in “All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten.” Be aware of wonder. Say you're sorry when you hurt someone. And when you go out into the world, watch out for traffic, hold hands, and always stick together. Most importantly, have fun.
Condolences may be sent to: Borck (POB 623, Plainville) and Bartley (5 Timber Hill Rd, Plainville). A celebration of Paul's life will be held for friends under separate invitation.