April 30, 1923 – May 20, 2026
Harlan J. Olson, 103, of Two Harbors died Wednesday, May 20, 2026 at Waterview Shores.
He was born April 30, 1923 to Thomas and Stella (Johnson) Olson in Evansville, MN. Harlan grew up in Duluth and was drafted into the Army just weeks before his graduation from Denfeld High School. At the age of 101, he was invited to return to Denfeld to receive his diploma with the Class of 2024. After serving for 3 years in the Army, Harlan returned to Duluth, and worked for Superwood Corp. for several years. After meeting Patricia Carlson, they married March 16, 1961, and he made his home in Two Harbors since that time. He was employed by Reserve Mining Company in Silver Bay as a welder from 1957 until retiring in 1987.
Harlan grew up as a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Duluth, and later was a member of the United Church of Two Harbors, the Lakeview Men’s Golf League, and the American Legion.
With a life-long passion for sports, Harlan enjoyed golfing until the age of 101. He also enjoyed cribbage, and his several dogs over the years.
Preceding him in death were his parents; a brother, Harvey; and a sister, Myrtle.
Harlan is survived by his wife of 65 years, Pat; sons, Tim (Tammy), Charlie, Curtis (Eliane), Kirk (Shelley) and Lance (Melanie); grandchildren, Toni, Tara, Ryan, Megan, Samantha, Harlie, Frankianne, Eugene, and Heather; and 8 great-grandchildren.
Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, June 5, 2026 at the United Church in Two Harbors. To share a memory or leave an online condolence visit www.cavallinfuneralhome.com.
