Michael R. Olson

Michael R. Olson, age 63, passed away peacefully after his courageous fight and ongoing medical battle on Thursday, October 3, 2024.

Mike is survived by his wife Linda (nee Spogis), sister Nancy (Jeff), brother Eric (Diana), sister Patti (John), brother-in-law Leonard (Trish), sister-in-law Patti (the late Bobby), Nieces and Nephews, Daniel (Teresa), Brad (Rachel), Alyssa (Justin), Jessica (Cody), Jahlieh (Ryan), Keith (Ashley), Menzie (Holli), Rebecca, Rubie and great nephews Maverick, Ryker, Axl, Harry and great niece Adelynn.

He is preceded in death by his mother Lynda, In-laws Len and Sandie, Brother-in-law Bobby.

Mike will forever be remembered as “100% WhoopAss”. In addition, being “The Nicest Guy In America”. He loved his family and friends dearly. He had an awesome sense of humor, famous for his quick whitted comments, and legendary for offering many words of wisdom to anyone who would listen.

He worked tirelessly in the transportation industry to provide for his wife so they could enjoy time together away from the grind of work. He was always ready for a good time, boating, fishing, card playing and teaching his nieces and nephews what “tequila pop” shots were. One of the most memorable Table Rock Lake dock times we all had was when he thought for one vacation we all needed a “shot of the day”. He loved any gathering that included, first and foremost, good food, good drink and good family and friends. His flair for fashion was never compromised making sure his tank top, swim trunks and sunglasses always matched ! A typical day of boating included a matched outfit, a full array of snacks, a cooler packed in perfect proportion of ice and drinks, and meeting up to head out for the day with friends and family on the lake.

Mike was an avid sports enthusiast. Diehard Bears fan, always rooting for the Cubbies, while even watching the Nascar drivers go around the track in circles. In his hayday he loved playing cards and dice and teaching his nephews the value of a dollar in a high stakes game of “In Between The Sheets”. He loved his fishing trips with the guys, camping in the new trailer, a big ass bonfire, and just chilling with those he loved. He cherished his “little babies” Chloe and Marley and is now playing in heaven with Molly and Hanz.

When Mike walked into a room, his presence was immediately known. He had many nicknames, a few include Spike, Big Mike, Full Of Busch, and of course WhoopAss. His favorite place on earth was the lake house on Table Rock Lake. So many memories and friends were made on that lake over the 35 years we spent there together.

Service for Michael will be held on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 102 E. Francis Road in New Lenox, with a visitation from 10am until time of the Memorial Service at 12:30pm.

In lieu of flowers donations in Mike’s honor to: Michael J. Fox Foundation For Parkinson’s Research or Halfway Home Animal Shelter