Clifford Oscar Olson, 77, of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 8, 2026, at Woodside Village in Grand Forks, North Dakota, after many visits from family and friends in his final days.

Clifford was born on June 12, 1948, in Grand Forks County, North Dakota, to Clifford Maxwell “Kife” Olson and Helen Luverne (Nelson) Olson. He was raised in the area and graduated from Lincoln High School before continuing his education at Northland State Junior College, where he earned his Associate of Arts degree.

Clifford was a hardworking and dedicated employee at Border States Electric for many years. Outside of work, he found great joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially reading and dancing. He was known for his kind nature, quiet strength, and deep appreciation for time spent with family and friends.

He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church, a place that remained meaningful to him throughout his life.

Clifford is survived by his loving children: Renae (Tadd) Vanyo of New Brighton, MN; Eric (Tracy) Olson of Portland, ND; and Benjamin (Lindsay) Olson of Dilworth, MN. He will be dearly missed by his grandchildren: Maxwell, Trent, Jacob, Nicole, Chris, Kylie, Mason, Logan, Jenna, Ryker, and Adeline. He is also survived by his brother, Tim (Kathy) Olson of Moorhead, MN; his brother-in-law, Ed Solvick; and his nephews, Robert Nelson and Zach Olson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford “Kife” Olson and Helen Olson, and his sister, Gwen “Cookie” Solvick.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Johnson Funeral Service in Thief River Falls, MN with Reverend Stephanie White officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to support your local library, donate a book to a Little Library or just read with someone you love.

Clifford will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.