James "Jim" Duane Olson

James Duane Olson passed away May 3, 2024 at Neilson Place in Bemidji, MN.

Jim was born March 13, 1938 in Wilton, Minnesota to Victor and Dorothy (McGriff) Olson. He was raised on a farm in rural Wilton. He married his high school sweetheart Betty Sundh on March 22, 1957. They were married for 66 years before Betty’s passing in 2023. They had 2 children Glen and Lori. Jim worked for Thorson Inc. of Bemidji for 39 years before retiring in 1996. Upon retiring Jim and Betty spent 22 winters in Mesa, Arizona. Jim enjoyed golfing, fishing, hunting, traveling, and spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jim is survived by his son, Glen (Jeanne) Olson of Bemidji, daughter, Lori (Paul) Klettenberg of Park Rapids; grandchildren, Emily (Joel) Newberg, Jeff (Kristen) Olson, Natasha (Kris Parson) Klettenberg, Logan (Kate) Klettenberg; and great grandchildren Sadie, Ruby, Reid, and baby due in September, Lindsey, Kelsey, Whitney, and Wesley. Survivors also include sister-in-law Margie Olson, brothers-in-law Conrad (Janice) Sundh and Gary (Dianne) Sundh. He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and brother Clarence (Ike) Olson.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at Olson-Schwartz Funeral Home. Memorial services will be held on Friday, May 17, 2024, at 11:00 AM at The Evangelical Covenant Church of Bemidji with visitation one hour prior.

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