Steven Bruce Olson, age 63, of Ada, passed away on January 5th, 2017 at Essentia Health, Fargo, ND.


Steven was born on August 14th, 1953, in Ada, MN, to Samuel and Bernice (Grondahl) Olson. Steven was raised along with his brother, Dean, on the family farm in Anthony Township, northwest of Ada. Steve's Mother, Bernice, died at an early age from cancer. He was surrounded by the close knit community of Anthony and the neighbors were always there to lend support to the family. His grandparents, Art and Theresa Grondahl, lived a few miles away. The Ruth and Ernest Stene family lived down the road; their home was always open for lunch, card games and laughs. His lifelong friend, Joe Johnson, was just a few miles to the south. There are many good memories of Shirley's meals and just being with the Johnson family. Steve was surrounded by many other friends and families in Anthony that always held a special place in his heart.


Anthony had its own store, where as a kid Steve could get treats, meet friends and maybe get into some mischief on a summer day. The East Marsh River Church was an important part of Steve's life as it was where he was baptized and later confirmed. His family farmed and raised cattle. As a youngster, he spent many days traveling to West Fargo with his Dad to cattle auctions and the stockyards, as Sam hauled cattle for many area farmers. Steve was active in FFA and showed cattle into his adulthood, with Herefords being his favorite.


Steve attended school in Ada, MN, and at Moorhead State University after graduation. In 1977, he married Karen Erickson of Ada and they had three children: Jessica, Jody and Justin. Steve continued to farm with his Dad until moving to South Dakota in 1981. Most recently he was part of Northern Plains Environmental in Davenport, ND.

Steve had a love for horses and anything to do with western life. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing and mostly being with his friends.

Steve is survived by his children: Jessica (Jason) Heitman of Ada, Jody Olson of Orlando, FL, and Justin (Alicia) Olson of Ada; his grandchildren, Samuel Heitman and Ella Olson; a nephew, Jacob Olson of Duluth, MN; an aunt, Eleanor Snustad of Moorhead, MN; and his special friend, Rose Schlaht of Moorhead, MN. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother.