John Leroy Olson

     John Leroy Olson, Spencer, IA passed away on Wednesday, March 22, 2023.  He was the son of Irvin and Edith Olson. He was born on the family farm near Spencer, IA. John graduated from Spencer High School in 1947. After graduation from Iowa State College in Ames, IA, he earned a Master’s Degree from Fresno State University. 

     John married Carol Van Buren in 1953 at the First Christian Church in Spencer, IA. They moved to Torrance, CA, where John taught Industrial Arts for 30 years. They raised their two sons, Steve and Greg in Torrance. 

     John enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, scuba diving and boating in the Pacific Ocean, exploring in Baja Mexico, swimming in Lake Okoboji, and riding his motorcycle in the desert and mountains of California. 

     John was preceded in death by his parents, Irvin and Edith Olson, his wife, Carol; one sister, Julie Toppenberg, and one brother, William Olson.

     John is survived by his two sons: Steve (Teresa) of Spencer, IA and Greg (Lisa) of Redondo Beach, CA; grandsons: John, Ryan (Laura), and Lance (Brittney), step grandsons: Jason (Christina) and Robert Walker; a granddaughter, Nicole (Max) Goldberg; two great granddaughters: Olivia and Ava; his grandson, Logan; step great grandson, Camden Walker; as well as other family and friends.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Riverside Cemetery
Spencer, Iowa