"Nelson" Axel Nelson Olson

On July 28, in the presence of family, Nelson passed away peacefully at the personal care home in MacGregor. Predeceased by his parents, Iver and Nellie Olson; brothers, Donald and John and sisters, Gloria and Hope. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Hazel; daughters, Lisa (Bart), Donalda (Terry); and son Eric (Lori); grandchildren Joel (Rihana), Jenniece, and Reed; great-grandchild, Tyler Jean; many nieces, nephews, family and friends. 

Nelson was born and raised on the family farm outside of MacGregor MB. As the second youngest of five, he formed a special bond with his little sister Hope, a love for family, and the warmth of the MacGregor community. Dad started working on the family farm “at 16”, retiring 60 years later. He loved farm life - lambs in the spring, cattle, pigs and even goats but Dad could always make time to hunt in the fall with his buddies. As a young man, he played hockey and baseball and socialized with both friends and competitors. He loved to sing and waited at many a party for Vivian to start to play. Dad was introduced to the love of his life, Hazel, who shared his passion for people and zest for life. They married in 1960 and together built a life focused on friends, family and community. They were devoted partners and in his final years, Mom visited him daily.  

Dad was a natural coach who loved to win. All who played for “Mr. Olson” responded to his careful advice to score a winning goal, steal second base or accept a loss with grace. He loved his players and years later enjoyed meeting them to share a story. Nelson and Hazel were inducted into the Manitoba Ringette Hall of Fame as builders for their work promoting the ringette across the province. Dad was a fierce supporter of his grandchildren and made many trips to Yorkton to watch Joel play soccer, to Jenniece’s ringette tournaments and Reed’s hockey and lacrosse. He knew just the right thing to say after a game and always embodied sportsmanship and class. Dad cherished every moment with his grandchildren and was eager to hear their latest life decision or share a little laugh.    

Dad had a special place in his heart for his nieces and nephews. Affectionately known as “Uncle Diddy”, he loved to tease and always had a story to tell and a twinkle in his eye. He enjoyed their visits to the farm and presence at special family events.           

Friends and community counted. Dad was an active Lion’s Club member for more than 55 years and embodied the motto “we serve”. After moving off the farm, Dad developed close friendships with the neighbors on Park Drive and included them in parties at the house, talking at the kitchen table or a chat in the sunroom.   

We are very thankful for the care and compassion shown to Dad at the MacGregor Health Centre and especially for being able to be with him at the end of his life. 

Generous in spirit and a lover of life, in our hearts forever, Dad.

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