Obituary of William Charles Richmond Olson

WILLIAM CHARLES RICHARD OLSON known as Bill entered this life, to the parents of Oscar and Mabel Olson in Cicero, Ill. June 4, 1932. He was preceded into death by parents, his sister, Marge & husband Nick Karas and brothers, Rich and Oscar. He is survived by a younger brother Bob & wife Sandy of Midlothian, IL. and sister-in-law Janet Olson of Oaklawn, IL. At the age 12, because of the death of his father, the family moved into his grandparents home where he and his brother Rich used the front porch as their bedroom. As the oldest son, he was expected to help support the family. He took jobs as a paper boy and worked for the Chicago library while completing his schooling. Bill was in the graduating class of 1947 from St. Leo’s grammar school and completed His schooling at Chicago Vocational School, graduating from the Machine Shop program in 1951. In 1952 he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War and served as wire lineman on the front lines with 196th Field Artillery Battalion. In 1954 he completed his service as a Corporal, an honorary discharge and four medals. At the age of 27 he met the love of his life and married, Verda Miller. They had two children, Lorie and Bill Jr. They moved to Santa Clara, CA. from Chicago, IL. as the result of a job opportunity with Lockheed Missiles and Space Company. He was commended for his work on the Mercury Mark II, space ship later known as the Gemini Project. Afterward, Bill was a sought out machinist for his technical skill and worked for several company’s at the beginning of the computer age, including Memorex and IBM. In 1972 Bill went to work for Stanford Research Institute, later know as SRI, International, retiring with 25 years of service. There he worked on many research projects including Bionics and Cold Fusion. Known for his mechanic skill and working with his hands, he was very mechanically gifted. He was an avid gemstone cutter. He enjoyed creating and making faceting machines that had greater precision. With this hobby he won many awards for the best of show and creative faceting designs. He also enjoyed woodworking, carving and gardening. Bill was quiet, friendly and non-judgmental accepting people for who they were allowing them freedom to be themselves. His home was an open and revolving door for those who were in need or needed a place to stay. He encouraged his children and others to be unique, to try new opportunities and to do their best. He installed loyalty, learning and hard work ethic with his family. In the 90’s they retired and moved to Maryville, TN. for eight years where they enjoyed visits from family and friends. Following a move to Olympia, WA. to be closer to their grandchildren. He leaves a legacy of eight grandchildren whom he delighted in as they grew into adulthood, and 10 great-grandchildren. He was loved dearly and will be greatly missed.