VINALHAVEN – Ivan Haakon Olson, 86, passed away peacefully Sunday, April 28, 2013, surrounded by his family, at home. Born Sept. 15, 1926, in Vinalhaven, he was the son of Oscar and Elin (Depuis) Olson of Norway.
Ivan’s love of the sea began at a very young age. He started lobstering at the age of eight and fished until he retired at the age of 82. He had several boats during his fishing career with the last one being named for his daughter, the “Nancy O”. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Ivan served from 1944-1952 during World War II and the Korean Conflict participating in both the Atlantic and the Pacific Theatre. In Okinawa, Japan, he saw action and was awarded several medals including Good Conduct, World War II Victory, Navy Occupation, China Service and National Defense. Ivan was a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and as a young man was a member of the Vinalhaven Fire Department. Ivan loved gardening and was well known for his beautiful day lilies. He enjoyed hunting, stamp collecting and made gaffs and miniature wooden pot buoys.
Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Norma (Whittington) Olson; two sons, Ivan E. Olson and wife, Margaret, and Mark E Olson and wife, Diane; daughter, Nancy Walker and husband, Richie; grandchildren, Christopher Guptill and wife, Sarah; Rebecca Guptill and Andrew Guptill and companion, Jenn Guptill; great-granddaughter, AnnaLee Dyer; sister-in-law, Phyllis Orcut; and niece, Linda Whittington and husband, Daniel Ames. He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Willie Olson.
In keeping with his wishes, a private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Contributions in Ivan’s memory may be made to Kno-Wal-Lin Hospice, 170 Pleasant St., Rockland, ME 04841. Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 9 Mountain St., Camden. Condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Olson family by visiting their Book of Memories at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.
IVAN H. OLSON
