To view the plants and flowers from Jim's service, access: Jim L. Olson Flower Pictures

A livestream of the service will be available by accessing https://www.youtube.com/live/dgHTtKayf3k?si=15WpKu7rKWU8HqPP

James L. Olson , 82, Velva, formerly of Minot, died Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in his home.

James, known by many as "Jim", was born on March 16, 1942, to Alvin and Lillian (Weidler) Olson in Minot. He remained in Minot throughout his early years while being raised and educated, and later graduated from Minot High School in 1960. Following graduation, James immediately enlisted in the United States Army, and honorably served his country until 1963, serving much of his time in Germany. Jim later attended Minot State University and Yavapai Community College in Prescott, Arizona for a time. He valued education very highly.

Jim was united in marriage to Joy Braucher on May 3, 1968, at the Congregational United Church of Christ in Minot. The couple remained in Minot, where Jim worked at Butler Machinery in Minot for a few years until joining his uncle on the farm in Velva. Jim farmed small grains on the family's century farm for many years, something of which he took great pride in. The Olsons' grew their family with the adoption of two children in 1970 and 1972, later adding a third child in 1977. In 1979, Jim moved with his young family and parents to Prescott, AZ where they lived near his sister until 1992. In Prescott, he worked in the distribution industry for Budweiser, and for an auto parts company. In his free time, he dedicated many hours building his hot rod, a '23 T-bucket. He finished his car in time for his 80th birthday and was able to enjoy driving and riding around in it.

Jim was a long-time member of the North Dakota Street Rod Association. He was a former Bjornson Township officer and a member of the American Legion and Congregational United Church of Christ in Minot. Jim was also an avid reader. He enjoyed writing and treated each year's calendar as a journal, noting visits, weather, and events. He particularly enjoyed doing projects out at the farm, in the garage, in the yard, and doing regular maintenance of all the machinery, still doing so even while under treatment for his cancer. Jims biggest joy were his grandchildren, who were immensely important to him. He spent much time with them on the phone, and watched every sporting event he could, whether it be in person, or on a streaming device.

Jim  is survived by his wife of 55 years, Joy; children: Tim (Stacy), Mandan, Chris, Velva, Shannon (Paul) Partin, Phoenix, AZ; brother: Gary (Judy), Maple Grove, MN; sisters: Gloria Levis, Boise, ID, Darlene Grant, Boise, ID, and Bonnie (Ron) Sullivan, Lafayette, LA; grandchildren: Cody Partin, Tristen, Tate, Jacoby, Kinsley, and Callie Olson; great granddaughter: Piper Marie Olson; and several nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; uncle: Kenneth; father-in-law and mother-in-law; brothers-in-law: Steve Levis, and Tom Ramsey.

Funeral Service: June 3rd, 2024, at 11:00 am in Oak Valley Lutheran Church, Velva
A livestream of the service will be available by accessing https://www.youtube.com/live/dgHTtKayf3k?si=15WpKu7rKWU8HqPP

Visitation: June 3rd, one hour prior to the start of the service in the church
Interment: Velva Community Cemetery

Memorials are preferred to Trinity Cancer Center or Velva Ambulance. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you for the exceptional care given by the Velva Ambulance team and Trinity Hospice.