Russell Olson, 81, of Erskine, MN formerly of Mentor, MN died on Thursday November 30, 2000 at Pioneer Memorial Care Center where he has resided since March 26, 1996. Arrangements with Johnson Funeral Service in Red Lake Falls, MN.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, December 4, 2000 at 10:00 AM at Pioneer Memorial Care Center Chapel in Erskine, MN with Reverend Robert Paulson Officiating. Burial will be held in the First English Lutheran Cemetery at Mentor, MN.

Visitation will be held one hour prior to services on Monday at the Pioneer Care Center Chapel.

Russell Truman Olson was born December 16, 1918 son of John and Ida (Camp) Olson in Tilden Township near Mentor, MN. He was raised there and attended Dougdale School in Tilden Township. Russell lived and farmed on the family homestead for many years. He also worked for Tilden Township plowing snow and blading roads for 11 years.
Russell always enjoyed going to dances and auction sales to visit with people. He loved to listen to music and enjoyed playing the accordion, violin and harmonica and would play a Tune to all those who visited him in his home. Deer hunting time was always special for Russell as he got to listen to the stories and visit with the deer hunters that stayed at his place.
In December of 1995 he entered Hillcrest Nursing Home in Red Lake Falls because he was no longer able to take care of himself. In March of 1996 he entered Pioneer Memorial Care Center in Erskine where he has since resided.
He is survived by his brother Art (Evelyn) Olson of Mentor, MN; nieces Sharon (Larry) Hanson of Erskine and Janis (Reggie) Galland of Mentor, MN: great nieces Jill, Amy and Katie Galland of Mentor and Great Nephew Tim Rhode of Camp LeJune, NC, US Marine Corp.
Russell is preceded in death by his parents.

ORGANIST:
CONGREGATIONAL HYMNS: What A Friend We Have in Jesus & Beautiful Savior
CASKET BEARERS: Doug Qualley, Larry Hanson, Reggie Galland, Gary Moran, Bud Schear and Dave Hanson.
HONORARY CASKET BEARERS: All of Russells family and friends.