Russell Stanley Olson

Russell Stanley Olson, age 51 of Viroqua, died Monday December 2, 2019. Russell Stanley Olson, age 51, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2019 at Vernon Manor Nursing Home in Viroqua, Wisconsin. Russell was born in Viroqua and grew up on the family farm on Three Chimney Road. He attended Westby High School, graduating in 1986 having participated in drama club and known fondly for his light-hearted nature and just being a great guy. For a few years following high school, Russell was employed by ORC in La Crosse. He then moved back to Viroqua where he worked at VARC and met many new friends whom he enjoyed being with even after having to discontinue working due to his health. Russells greatest friend was truly his brother Richard someone who he would watch professional wrestling with, play cards and generally just have a good time with. After Richard passed away, Russell most likely felt a deep loss as they were inseparable on most all occasions. Russells first thoughts were always of others and therefore hid his pain so others would not worry. The last several years of his life were spent at Vernon Manor where he continued to make new friends, participating in games and just being happy despite his declining physical abilities and most recently a diagnosis of lymphoma. Russell enjoyed watching cartoons and Star Wars movies, reading Marvel comics (esp. Spiderman) and trivia. He could absorb himself in the Guinness Book of World Records or anything with super-heros. He may not have been aware of it, but it is ironic that those who possessed extra-ordinary physical abilities were of most interest to him. Unlike his heroes, Russell could not walk and even struggled to grasp a pen securely in his later years. Although lacking in physical strength, Russells heart was gigantic and many have appreciated the little thoughtful ways he would bring happiness to their lives telling a joke, sharing a small gift from his countless trivia game winnings or writing a heartfelt poem. Recently, one of Russells caregivers at Vernon Manor shared how Russell had left a plastic cupid on her desk and told her to take note as she had a new guardian angel close by! Others have shared their poems he wrote for them or how he cheered them up when they were feeling down. His kindness and thoughtfulness extended to everyone he met both in life and forever afterward. Russell had suffered many losses in his life losing both family and friends at a young age. Despite this he kept a positive attitude, never displaying anger or remorse over his own ailments. One of his friends, who he participated in Special Olympics with, passed away at the age of 28 and Russell contributed a poem in his memory to the newsletter Teammates. It is in Russells own words, written for his friend, which truly defines the life Russell himself lived. "He had talent that was shared with every person he called friend, and as long as we hold that with us, his life will never end. His talent was never to see the bad in anything or anyone - He also knew how to have fun. He always tried his best, giving his all and never thinking himself as some kind of wiz, but isnt that what a real champion is." Russell is survived by his mother Patricia (Gander) Olson and his sister Kari (Paul) Johnson, niece Kelsey (Matthew) Hase and nephews Lucas Johnson, Andrew (Anna & Reed) Johnson, along with several aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his brother Richard Olson, father Stanley Olson and his grandparents: Paul and Dorathy (Chroninger) Gander and Charles and Mary (Erickson) Olson. Thank you to Russells extended family and friends at Vernon Manor and those who made his days so much brighter. A Funeral Service for Russell will be Saturday, December 7, 2019 at 11:00 AM at the Vosseteig-Larson Funeral, 123 W. Decker, in Viroqua. Pastor Pam Harkema of the United Methodist Driftless Regional Ministries will officiate with burial following the service at Viroqua Cemetery. Friends may call during a visitation Saturday beginning at 10:00 AM until the service starts. In lieu of flowers or plants, memorials are preferred in Russells name. On-line condolences may be offered at www.vossfh.com The Vosseteig-Larson Funeral Home, 123 West Decker in Viroqua, is serving the family, (608) 637-2100.