In Memory Of
Merlin Eugene Olson
1939
2023
Merlin Eugene Olson
September 5, 1939 — February 17, 2023
Merlin Eugene Olson, 83, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on Friday, February 17, 2023. He was born on September 5, 1939 in Assaria, Kansas to John and Edith (Anderson) Olson.
Merlin spent his early years growing up on the family farm and attended elementary and high school in Assaria, graduating in 1957. He attended Fort Hayes University and graduated with a degree in Biology. Merlin spent two years in the U.S. Army as a medic in Fort Lee Virginia. Upon his discharge, he returned to KS and worked as a Chemist for Southwest Grease and Oil until his retirement in 2002. Merlin was a lifetime member of the American Legion serving as Commander for two terms and as part of the Color Guard. He was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed watching the KC Royals and KC Chiefs.
Merlin is survived by his loving wife of thirty-three years, Mary Olson; step-daughter, Rose Jost, San Diego, CA, grandchildren, Hannah Jost, Studio City, CA, Allison Balke, (Taylor), San Diego, CA, Trevor Jost, San Diego, CA and great grandson Rory Balke. Sister Elsie Swanson, Salina, KS, as well as his nephews, nieces, and cousins.
A graveside service will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Leavenworth National Cemetery, a luncheon will follow from 2:00-3:30pm at the American Legion Post 153, 410 E Dennis Ave, Olathe, KS 66061.
The family requests that memorial contributions in Merlin's memory be made to the American Legion, Post 153 or St Jude's Children's Hospital.
To leave a message of condolence for Merlin's family or to share a special memory of Merlin, please visit the guestbook below.
Merlin spent his early years growing up on the family farm and attended elementary and high school in Assaria, graduating in 1957. He attended Fort Hayes University and graduated with a degree in Biology. Merlin spent two years in the U.S. Army as a medic in Fort Lee Virginia. Upon his discharge, he returned to KS and worked as a Chemist for Southwest Grease and Oil until his retirement in 2002. Merlin was a lifetime member of the American Legion serving as Commander for two terms and as part of the Color Guard. He was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed watching the KC Royals and KC Chiefs.
Merlin is survived by his loving wife of thirty-three years, Mary Olson; step-daughter, Rose Jost, San Diego, CA, grandchildren, Hannah Jost, Studio City, CA, Allison Balke, (Taylor), San Diego, CA, Trevor Jost, San Diego, CA and great grandson Rory Balke. Sister Elsie Swanson, Salina, KS, as well as his nephews, nieces, and cousins.
A graveside service will be at 12:30pm on Wednesday, March 1, 2023, at Leavenworth National Cemetery, a luncheon will follow from 2:00-3:30pm at the American Legion Post 153, 410 E Dennis Ave, Olathe, KS 66061.
The family requests that memorial contributions in Merlin's memory be made to the American Legion, Post 153 or St Jude's Children's Hospital.
To leave a message of condolence for Merlin's family or to share a special memory of Merlin, please visit the guestbook below.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Merlin Eugene Olson, please visit our flower store.
Service Schedule
Past Services
Graveside Service
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
Starts at 12:30 pm (Central time)
Leavenworth National Cemetery
Luncheon
Wednesday, March 1, 2023
2:00 - 3:30 pm (Central time)
American Legion Post 153
Guestbook
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