Thursday, January 5, 2012

Clifford Olson

Funeral service for Clifford D. Olson, 82, of Manning were held on Monday, January 2, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, Killdeer, with Pastor Ernest Shipe officiating. Clifford passed away on December 25, 2011 at his home in Manning, North Dakota surrounded by his family.
Clifford Duane Olson was born on August 28, 1929 in Clifford, North Dakota, the son of Oswald and Pearl (LeRoy) Olson. He grew up north of Killdeer. In his youth, he rodeoed and worked for various ranchers. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy during the Korean Conflict serving around the world.
On May 5, 1967 Clifford married Vernetta Mae Bratcher in Alexander, North Dakota at the Nazarene Church. During their five years in rural Alexander, their two children Jeffrey and Cynthia were added to the family. In 1972, the family relocated to rural Verndale, where they farmed and ranched for 37 years. Wanting to relocate closer to family Clifford, Vernetta, Cynthia and Kayla moved to Manning, North Dakota where they have made their home since.
Cliff enjoyed being around horses, working cattle and being active outdoors. He and Vernetta always had a large garden every year which usually fed the entire neighborhood. If something was broken he could fix it—even without duct tape. If Cliff was not enjoying the outdoors, fixing something, or playing with grandchildren, you could find him reading. He enjoyed traveling and the occasional scenic drive around the Killdeer Mountains. His biggest love however was spending time with his family and friends.
Clifford was preceded in death by his parents; brother Darl “Jack”; sister-in-law Minnie Olson; and brother-in-law Richard “Dick” Walker.
He is survived by his wife Vernetta of Manning, North Dakota; son Jeffrey (Deborah) Olson of Iowa City, Iowa; daughter Cynthia (Allen) Crooker of Manning, North Dakota; grandchildren Jonathon (Olson), Kayla (Crooker); 7 step-grandchildren; 9 step-great-grandchildren; brothers Gary (Loretta) Olson of Chewelah, Washington and Harold (Maureen) Olson of Killdeer, North Dakota; sisters Irene (Charles) Meduna of Dickinson, North Dakota and Marilyn Walker, Deer Lodge, Montana.
Military rites were presented by Ezra Barrows Post #46. Burial followed at the Oakdale Cemetery.
Remembrances and condolences may be shared with the family at www.stevensonfuneralhome.com