Rodney Mac Olson Obituary

Rodney Mac Olson

July 15, 1950 - July 12, 2025

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, Rodney Mac Olson, 74, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife, Cheri, his daughters, and their families, just three days shy of his 75th birthday. True to form, Rod kept his signature humor to the very end, famously announcing, "It's time to pull the plug!" with a grin, then asking, "What's taking so long?" If you knew Rod, you'd recognize that dry wit and unshakable charm, he was always himself, right to the last moment.

Rod was born on July 15, 1950, in Victor, Montana, to Grace and Elmer Olson. One of seven children, he grew up on the family farm in the Bitterroot Valley and remained close to his siblings throughout his life. He graduated from Victor High School in 1968.

On June 30, 1972, Rod married the love of his life, Charlene "Cheri" Olson. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, adventure, and deep love. They raised two daughters, Patricia and Sarah, who brought him endless pride and joy.

Rod and Cheri moved to Helena, Montana, in 1972, where Rod began a long career with United Parcel Service. Known for his dependability and strong work ethic, he built lasting friendships, especially with his close friend, Stan Colton. After a work-related injury prompted a career shift, Rod owned and operated The Branding Iron in Helena. In 1992, he and Cheri moved to Oregon. After retirement, he was grateful to return home to his beloved Montana.

Rod was the kind of man who was always ready to help offering a steady hand, sound advice, or just showing up when you needed him. He loved the outdoors, a good laugh, and most of all being with those he loved. Family was everything to him. He cherished the annual Olson reunions, where his playful spirit always took center stage. Whether he was on the roof dumping water during a family water fight or waking up campers at sunrise with a bucket of firecrackers, if there was mischief afoot, chances were Rod was behind it all with that unforgettable blue-eyed grin.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grace and Elmer, and his brothers, Arne and Mike.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Charlene Olson; his daughter Patricia and her husband, Will Kirkham, and their children, Grace and Jack; and his daughter Sarah and her husband, Rob Murphy, and their children, Ryan (Bailey), Collin, and West. He is also survived by his siblings Wayne (Judy), Lola, Jim (Rose), and Debbie (Jim), along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who loved him deeply. He shared countless moments of love, laughter, and adventure with them, whether it was teaching them to shoot guns, telling stories, or cracking open a cold Miller Lite together. His blue-eyed grin and larger-than-life personality will forever be etched into their hearts.

A celebration of Rod's life will be held on August 9, 2025, in Lakeside, Montana. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories of a man who made every moment count and made every moment better for those around him.

Contact Patricia Kirkham via text or phone for information: 503.381.2899, if you wish to attend.