Olson, Westley G. Longtime resident of New Brighton, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on February 24 surrounded by family. Preceded in death by his parents, Arvid and Margaret Olson; infant brother; sister, Beverly; and granddaughter, Kelly Olson. He will be sadly missed by his wife of 66-1/2 years, Dorothy; children, Laurie (Gary) Rasmusson, Mark (Marie) Olson, Craig (Anna) Olson, Jay (Susan) Olson; grandchildren, Katie LaCroix, Britt Whittaker, Kaye Rasmusson, Carin Bohan, Kurt Rasmusson, Elizabeth Olson, Joseph Olson, Martin Olson; and 6 great-grandchildren. Born on February 12, 1925 in Duluth, Wes was a proud 1943 graduate of Denfeld High School where he excelled in both football and basketball. Receiving his draft notice the day after graduation, he served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant in the signal corps. Following his time in the Army, he took advantage of the G.I. Bill to attend U. M. Duluth where he was a 4-year Bulldog tackle achieving All Conference honors 3 times while earning his degree in education. In 1950, he married Dorothy and also began a 35-year career in education in Columbia Heights where he taught, coached and served as assistant principal. He was a tireless supporter of Heights sports and longtime member of the local athletic booster club. This dedication to youth carried over to his children and grandchildren in both academics and athletics, rarely missing an event. He shared this passion for youth in his work with the Columbia Heights-Fridley Kiwanis Club. Wes was an avid outdoors man and especially loved fishing. He and Dorothy traveled extensively and enjoyed a long retirement. Visitation is from 5-8 PM on Thursday, March 2 at Washburn-McReavy Columbia-Heights Chapel. Funeral service at 11:30 AM on Friday, March 3 at Salem Covenant Church, 2655-5th St. NW, New Brighton with visitation 1 hour before service. Interment at Washburn-McReavy Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials preferred to Parkinson's Foundation, Columbia Heights High School Alumni Scholarship Foundation, or donor's choice. Washburn-McReavy.com Columbia Hts Chapel 763-789-4436 4101 Central Ave. N.E.