Mitch Olson

   Mitchell Scott Olson was born on July 23, 1963 and died April 18, 2023. Mitch was born in Powers Lake, North Dakota to Orrin and Larena (Volberg) Olson and lived with his parents and his older brother on a farmstead in rural Battleview, ND until he was 2. His family moved to Everett, Washington where he was blessed with a sister, then moving to Powers Lake where he was later blessed with a younger brother.  Mitch attended school in Powers Lake and after moving to Grand Forks, he later graduated from Grand Forks Central High School in 1981. 

   During his senior year of high school, Mitch enlisted in the Army National Guard at age 17 in what would become a successful 25-year career. His assignments included the Headquarters of State Area Command and the 142nd Engineer Combat Heavy Battalion. His overseas tours included Honduras, Jamaica, Australia, Panama, Korea, and a year-and-a-half deployment for Operation Iraqi Freedom. Mitchell was a member of the 188th Army Band in which he played the trombone, French horn, and sang.  His vocal version of “God Bless the U.S.A.” was often requested.  He sang it for President George and Barbara Bush.

   In 1993, Mitch built his long-time south Fargo home and later was blessed with three children, Benjamin Scott born 1995, Emily Sophia born 1998, and Samantha Alice born 1999. Mitch retired from the Guard in 2005, and earned his Bachelor’s degree in 2006 from the University of Mary. He worked for various federal agencies including FEMA, the V.A., and most notably served as the State Adjutant for the North Dakota American Legion, where he was an active member for many years. Mitchell fully retired to work at his lake place near Vergas, MN in 2012.

   Mitch loved his lake place and had a dream of starting a campground for veterans and their families, which was his passion for the rest of his life. He had a charismatic personality that earned him many friends with plenty of nights playing in the band, attending a Legion function, and of course karaoke. Mitch loved family reunions, his family was a huge part of his life and was especially close with his mother Larena. His love was known by his children and several pets throughout his lifetime, especially his “grand dogs.” Mitch had many talents and was extremely patriotic with a deep love for his country. In his final weeks, he spent time with his family and received excellent care from St. Catherine’s in North Fargo. 

   Mitch is survived by his three children Benjamin, Emily and Samantha; his mother Larena Lokken (Fargo, ND); Sister Melissa (Jeff) Philipp (Horace, ND); beloved nieces and nephews Stacy, Tanner, Trevor, Harrison, Corbin, Marissa, Abigail and Audrey; including many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Monte and Mel; his father, Orrin; God Daughter Jeri Monette; step-father Leon McGinnity; Grandparents Alvina & Ralph Greenfield, Elmer Volberg, and Elmer & Gladys Olson. 

   Memorial Service: Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at 3:00 p.m., in West Funeral Home, West Fargo, ND, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

   Interment: Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 2:00 p.m., in North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan, ND.

West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center

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