John Samuel Olson

John Samuel Olson, age 63 of Mankato died Wednesday April 12, 2023 at Mayo Clinic Health Systems.

A visitation will be held from 4 – 7 p.m., Thursday April 20, 2023, at Northview-North Mankato Mortuary. Please come as you are, no black clothing. A celebration of life will be held later this summer.

John was born August 19, 1959, in Mankato to James and Beatrice (Lowe) Olson. He married Deborah Black on October 6, 1979, in Mankato. John owned and operated J&R Roofing in Mankato. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, trapping, and camping with his family.

Our “legend” Big John will be remembered for his storytelling, his whistle, his love for the outdoors, and always his love for family. All the memories that John has given us through the years from the Big Fish house to rafting the river. Many trips hunting in North Dakota, smelting in Duluth, and Brainerd for the races. His legacy will live on through everyone that knew him, and we will forever be grateful for all that John has taught us.

John is survived by his wife, Deb of Mankato; three children, Chad (Dana) Olson of New Richland, Amanda (Nate Young) Olson of Prior Lake, Travis Olson of Mankato; eight grandchildren, Ireland, Keelie, Blake, Cody, Vail, Dylan, Harrison, and Ophyllia; three siblings, Julie (Steve) St. Peter, Mike (Tina) Olson, Joe (Lori) Olson all of Mankato; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends that became family.

Preceded in death by his parents.