Paul Charles Olson was born on Nov. 25, 1944, in Cherokee to Ray and Veva Olson. He died on Aug. 4, 2025, in West Des Moines with his family by his side.
He attended school in Cherokee, graduating in 1964. In 1967, he fell in love and married Claudia (Voigt) Olson and they were married for 58 years. Together they had two sons that were born in Cherokee, Chad Olson and Chris Olson.
Paul worked at Cherokee Mental Health Institute while attending college. Paul graduated from Buena Vista University in 1970 with a bachelor’s degree in education. He loved being a teacher and coaching. He taught science, chemistry, biology and environmental studies in Alta and Burt. In 1984, he graduated with a master’s degree in school administration, at which time he became a principal at Guttenberg, then Glidden as well as Bennet. He obtained his doctor of education in Leadership from Drake University. He was a superintendent of schools in Terril and Hawarden for the last 15 years of his career. He loved education and working with kids. Paul retired after 42 years in public education and spent summers in Okoboji. The family will honor his wishes by hosting a celebration of life in Okoboji at a later date.
Paul loved his two boys and taught them to appreciate the outdoors. From very early on he had his boys hunting, fishing, trapping and spending numerous hours outdoors. He taught them the importance of working, being responsible and accountability. He was very proud of the success of both boys. Chad owns a successful business (Jones Creek Office Installations) doing office installations services in the Des Moines area. Chris followed in his father’s footsteps and is currently the superintendent at The Eldora Boys State Training School in Eldora. He has worked for the State of Iowa for 32 years.
Paul enjoyed the boy’s passion for hunting and fishing. He took them to Canada several times when they were young and almost every weekend was spent doing something outdoors, often going hunting or fishing and summers in Okoboji.
Paul was a wonderful grandfather and was referred to by his grandkids as Papa. He taught his grandkids the importance and respect of the outdoors. He loved the outdoors, which included gardening, planting food plots and helping his grandchildren learn to fish and hunt.
He is survived by his wife Claudia; his two sons, Chris (Hannah) and Chad; grandchildren: Hunter Bruns who loves the outdoors like his grandpa; Anna Lensing/Olson (Nick Lensing) who always made him proud as a great student; and his pride, great-grandson Jack, who enjoyed playing catch with Papa in his last few days; Maddie Olson (Bridger), his granddaughter who is a teacher, was very proud that she followed his path as an educator; Zane Olson, who was the first he would call if he needed something; and Emi Olson, a talented ball player who is always smiling and loves the outdoors.
He was preceded in death by two nephews, Cory Hansen and Mark Kirkholm; and his parents, Ray and Veva Olson.
He is survived by his siblings: Carol Hansen (Jerry), David Olson (Arla) and Bonnie Kirkholm (Stanley). Also, several nieces and nephews who were dear to him: Grant, Julie, Doug, Angela, Sherri and Lori.
Paul was involved in several outdoor organizations including Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, Great Lakes of Iowa and Fish stocking projects. Paul’s legacy will continue with the support and contributions to the great outdoors. Paul welcomed everyone to his lake place and made them feel at home. Paul and his frequent smile will be missed. Hopefully we will see you at the celebration of life. In the Leu of flowers contributions can be made to the Olson family trust. Olson Family Trust, 540 S. 51 St. #404, WDM, IA 50265 or Venmo: @Chris-Olson-75
