William 'Bill' Olson, 57, Minot, died Monday, May 27, 2019 in a Minot hospital from complications of diabetes.

Bill was born June 21, 1961 in Minot, ND to Hjalmer and Audrey (Granheim) Olson. He graduated from Minot High School in 1980. Bill served his country honorably during his military career in the US Navy and US Air Force.

Bill was once married to Cheryl Stuckey. They lived in Surrey, ND during their time together with her daughter, Crystal. Bill was later joined in marriage to Debbie Arrieta. They resided in the country near Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. Bill was blessed to adopt two children into his family, Angel and Andy.

Following a work accident, he returned to North Dakota and resided in Carpio, ND. He had a hobby farm located near the Greene crossing of Lake Darling, where he raised every type of animal that chased visitors in and out of the yard. Rabbits, chickens, turkeys and even a horse were all residents of the Olson farm.

Bill worked as a driver for Souris Valley Transportation in Minot until he retired in 2016.

A friendship with Stefanie Markle blossomed into a marriage on June 17, 2004 in Minot. Bill loved his ever-growing family with the addition of two additional children Nici and James. He was blessed with many grandchildren during his lifetime and always valued time spent with them.

Camping and fishing were always on the list of summer activities even if it took days to organize the tackle box after the grandkids got a hold of it. He was a connoisseur of bread only sandwiches; a trait shared with his father but improved the menu with the addition of his 'mayo cakes.' Driving fast, teepee building and many 'losing grandpa in the wheelchair' pranks were just part of the fun with Grandpa Bill. He will be deeply missed by all who shared in his life.

Bill is survived by his loving wife of nearly 15 years, Stefanie Olson, Minot; children Crystal Hanson, Angel Massong, Andy Arrieta, Nici Prouty and James (Crystal Willey) Prouty; grandchildren Cole, Jagger, Misha, Madison, Olivia and Rylie; sister Lonie Dodoo, Fargo; brothers Vernon (Kat Allen) Olson, Kendall 'Kelly' Olson and John Olson, all of Minot along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents.

Celebration of Bill's Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. Friday, May 31, 2019 at Zion Lutheran Church, Minot.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 30, 2019 from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

William Olson Flower Pictures