Donald Rodney Olson

Donald Rodney Olson, of Bellingham, WA, passed away Friday, December 31, 2021 at his home surrounded by family. He will be greatly missed and always in our hearts.
Don was 79, born in Bellingham on August 22, 1942 to Katherine M. (O’Connor) and Herbert J. Olson. He graduated from Bellingham High School in 1960 and received his BA and Master’s degrees from WWU. Don taught high school math for 33 years, starting his teaching career in Portland, OR, Oxnard, CA, and retiring from Ferndale High School (1968-1997). He then was a financial advisor for 22 years with Waddell and Reed, retiring at the end of 2020. He enjoyed the many friendships and connections he was blessed with during his time as a financial advisor.
Don was an avid runner most of his life, completed ten marathons in the 70s and 80s, and enjoyed many years of comradery with the morning crew at Bellingham Athletic Club until 2020.
He was a member and served on the church vestry of St. Brendan’s Anglican Church in Bellingham.
Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Katherine Day. He is survived by his wife Karen, sons, Charles (Kim) Olson and Christopher (Amy) Olson, four grandchildren, Brittni, Andy, Kailey, and Breeanne, four great-grandsons, and his sisters, Joanne Kovach- Norwil (Jeff) and Susan Redd.
The family wants to express heartfelt gratitude to Whatcom Hospice for the meaningful care they provided. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Whatcom Hospice.
A graveside service will be held at 1:00 p.m., Friday, March 18th at Bayview Cemetery with a reception following at 2:00 p.m. at Westford’s Broadway Hall, 1300 Broadway. You may share your memories of Don at www.westfordfuneralhome.com .