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100 years of Olson Funeral Home
Published 12:00pm Sunday, August 16, 2009By Tom Hintgen
Daily Journal
When taking a few minutes earlier this week to look back on four generations in the funeral home business, Guy Olson and his mother, Elaine, said they’re grateful for the trust in Olson Funeral Home and Cremation Service given by people in Fergus Falls and the surrounding area the past century.
“We take pride in helping people during the spiritual and emotional times of their lives,” said Elaine Olson who operated the funeral home with her late husband, Bob Olson.
Olson Funeral Home has evolved as cultural changes have taken place.
“Each generation of the Olson family has seen a new direction,” said Guy Olson, “recognizing trends and becoming leaders in the funeral home services.”
As an example, Olson Funeral Home was the first funeral home in this area to offer personalized cremation services. They also were first in this area to have sufficient space for a funeral chapel, also providing an area for receptions.
“We’re proud of the fact that when funeral homes needed to take different directions, in response to the wants and needs of society, Olson Funeral Home reacted,” said Elaine Olson.
Guy Olson said that over the years his family has been fortunate to have a skilled and licensed staff, with many years of service. On the staff are five licensed funeral directors, of which two are licensed insurance agents who are able to help with pre-arranging and pre-funding for funerals.
That being said, a big portion of their day is devoted to much more paperwork than in previous years. There are also state and federal regulations to adhere to.
Both Bob and Elaine appreciate the trust from second, third and even fourth generations of families who have been served — in times of need — by Olson Funeral Home. They take pride that they’ve remained independent and family-owned all these years.
“Out continuing philosophy,” said Guy Olson, “is to follow the integrity instilled by previous generations that they — the Olson family — adhered to in past decades.”
The current facility was built in 1995.
The staff of Olson Funeral Home and Cremation Service give back to the community through their involvement in various clubs and organizations.
The funeral home will hold a Community Appreciation Picnic on Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 2 to 8 p.m. at Adams Park near Grotto Lake. A complimentary barbecue supper will be served, starting at 5 p.m.
