Michael Matthew Olson

The folder for Michael's funeral service can be viewed by clicking

Michael Olson, formerly of Watertown, SD, passed away on April 6, 2025, in Chicago, IL.  Funeral services will be held on Monday, April 14, 2025, at Goodhue Lutheran Church in Florence, SD, at 2:00 p.m.  Burial will immediately follow the service in the church cemetery.  Following burial, a time of fellowship will take place in the church basement where coffee and cakes will be served.  Furness Funeral Home has been entrusting with assisting the Olson family with arrangements.

Michael Matthew Olson was born on June 19, 1966, in Watertown, SD, to James S. Olson and Anita M. Gerber.  Michael attended grade school in Florence, SD, middle school in Madison, SD, and graduated from Watertown High School.  Michael immediately enlisted in the United States Navy, traveling to boot camp the day after his high school graduation.  Graduating color from the Navy Great Lakes Naval Station, Michael went on to serve 9 years in the Navy, eventually becoming the youngest ever naval company commander at the age of 21.  Throughout his time in the Navy, Michael was awarded multiple medals and awards, and acted as the leading petty officer on his final voyage.

Following Michael's time in the military, he moved to Detroit where he began working for Ford Motor Company in November 1996 until the time of his passing.  He was a dedicated member of the Ford team, eventually being accepted into the trades program at the company.

Michael was also a passionate member of the United Auto Workers Local Chapter 551 where he worked tirelessly as a champion for working families, serving as an advocate and a voice for justice.  Michael's intelligence made him a valuable asset to the UAW, as he committed his time to several committees and campaign runs.  He devoted much of his time to the Citizenship and Legislative Committee, ensuring that union voices were heard.

Michael enjoyed watching the news, reading the newspaper, and being involved in politics.  He prided himself on being well-informed on current events, which benefited him in his work with the UAW.  He was a kind and generous man with a quick wit and wickedly good sense of humor.  Most of all, Michael cherished moments spent with his family, particularly the several adventures they were able to share within the last couple of years.

Michael is survived by his beloved wife, Veronica; daughters: Kirsten (Troy Gallup) Olson, of MI, and Rachel (Joshua) Johnson, of MI; granddaughter Charlotte Johnson; mother, Anita Gerber of Clark, SD; grandmother Margaret Bergh, of Watertown, SD; brothers: Brian (Gwen) of TN, and Jon (Nancy) Gerber of CO; nieces Addison and Lilyan Gerber; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his father, James Olson; grandparents: Joyce and Don Olson, and Perry Bergh; and a daughter, Elizabeth.