Ronald L. Olson, admirably known as “Mr. Olson,” peacefully passed away surrounded by his family at his home in New Berlin. He was born in Iron River, Michigan on June 24th, 1947, to his parents Lewis and Minnie Olson.
He graduated from West Iron County High School and continued his education at Northern Michigan University where he studied education, English, and reading. Degree in hand, he was recruited to work for Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) which kick started his career in education. Teaching is where he discovered his true passion for creating bonds and connecting with students. Ron learned with his students by constantly discovering unique approaches to enhance his teaching which inspired his community in the process. Always the role model, “Mr. Olson” went on to pursue his Masters in Reading at Cardinal Stritch. This launched him into administration where he became a true advocate for his students as an assistant principal. Along with this, he taught a speed reading course at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) which further expanded the impact that he made on countless students in the community. He introduced his love for his hometown to the students of South Division High School. Leading annual trips to Iron River, he allowed hundreds of Milwaukee students to learn lifelong lessons beyond the classroom. After 33 years of devoted work at MPS, Ron retired. However, retiring didn’t mean leaving work. His post retirement career included working as a consultant for MPS, Teen Challenge, and Journey House.
Through MPS he met the love of his life, Mildred and her two daughters, Melissa and Melanie. Shortly after their marriage they welcomed their daughter, Kayla. Although he led a life of public service, his dedication to his family, and those he considered family, always took priority. He was a devoted family man who put the needs and happiness of his loved ones before his own, providing them with endless faith, love, and support. His love for his family was only preceded by his love of food. Ron was and will always be a father-figure to many.
Ron is survived by his loving wife Mildred, daughter Kayla, step-daughters Melissa (Carmine), Melanie (Andrew), granddaughter Gianna, sister Ruth, many nephews, nieces, family, friends, colleagues, students and his beloved pup, “Ms. Pretty.” Preceded in death by his parents Lewis and Minnie, and siblings Doris and James.
Visitation will be on Thursday, June 8, 2023 from 4PM until 7PM at Discover Church, 7311 S. 13th St. in Oak Creek. Further Visitation will take place on Friday, June 9 at Discover Church from 9:30AM until the time of Funeral Service at 10:30AM. Burial to follow at Highland Memorial Park in New Berlin.