Gustaf "Gus" Adolf Olson, Jr.

Gustaf Adolph Olson, Jr., lovingly known as Gus, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, in Sapulpa, Oklahoma. He was 85 years old.

Gus was born on December 27, 1940, in Smithville, Ohio, to Gustaf and Pearl Olson. He was raised in Akron, Ohio, near the Goodyear Tire Plant, where he spent many happy hours watching the Goodyear Blimp and airplanes flying in and out of the nearby airport. Those childhood memories sparked a lifelong love of aviation that remained with him throughout his life. He especially enjoyed building detailed model airplanes and admired the beauty and engineering of flight.

Gus proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he devoted his life to his family and, above all, to his faith in Jesus Christ. A faithful servant of the Lord, Gus found great joy in reading and studying the Bible. His relationship with Christ guided the way he lived each day, and he shared God's love through his kindness, humility, and gentle spirit. His family finds comfort knowing that he is now at home with his Savior.

Gus appreciated the simple blessings in life. He loved cars, enjoyed cooking for those he cared about, and had a gift for writing heartfelt poems. He was a fan of classic radio and television programs and never outgrew his love for aviation. He also enjoyed watching The Polar Express and treasured the memories of riding Disney's Soarin' attraction, which perfectly reflected his lifelong fascination with flight.

More than anything, Gus loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend whose quiet strength, unwavering faith, and loving heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Wanda Olson; his children, SFC William Olson (Ret.) and wife, Rossi, and Marlo Barnes and husband, Robert; his grandchildren, Billy Olson, 1stSgt Jacob Olson, TSgt Erik Olson, Courtney Lindsey and husband, Matt, SSgt Tyler Olson, Joy Olson, and Justin Olson; his great-grandchildren, Autumn, Kairi, Ethan, Kaden, Nora, Kayedence, Arianna, Zira, and Kyven; and his sisters, Sandra Carroll and husband, Larry, and Vicki Watson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gustaf and Pearl Olson, and his brother, Richard Olson.

Gus leaves behind a legacy of steadfast faith, unconditional love, and quiet devotion to his family. While he will be deeply missed, those who knew and loved him rejoice in the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ and the assurance that they will see him again.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, July 17, 2026, in the Shipman's Funeral Home Chapel with Reverend Doug Carey officiating. Burial will follow in the Ross Mayes Cemetery. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Shipman's Funeral Home in Pryor. To leave a personal message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.