Donald Lee Olson, 81, of Michigan City, passed away Saturday, August 28, 2021 in his home.

 

He was born February 3, 1940, in Omaha, Nebraska to Fred and Rose Swartzlander. He was adopted by Melvin and Mildred (Garwood) Olson after the death of his mother and enlistment of his father into the service.

 

Donald graduated from high school in Westville, Indiana. He honorably served his country in the United States Army for six years. He was a member of Door Village United Methodist Church and the Door Village Lions - International Association of Lions Clubs, Division 25A. Donald retired from Weil-McLain, Michigan City, after 11 years. Donald enjoyed traveling, antiquing and wood working.

 

On May 26, 1989, in Orlando, Florida, he married Bonnie Louise (Large) Olson, who survives.

 

Also surviving are his two children, Julie (Matt) Reed of New Carlisle and Douglas (Tia) Olson of Dowagiac, MI; two stepsons, Jerry Shepherd and Don Barden both of La Porte; one sister, Maryann (Dave) Sommers of Grandville, MI; eleven grandchildren; and ten great-grandchildren.

 

Preceding in death were his parents; adoptive parents; two sisters, Darlene and Shirley; and one brother, Fred Swartzlander.

 

A funeral celebrating his life will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, September 2, 2021 at Lakeview Funeral Home & Crematory, 247 W. Johnson Rd., La Porte, (219) 362-3100 with Pastor Sam Polito officiating. Visitation and viewing will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 1, 2021 and from 10 a.m. until time of service Thursday, September 2, 2021 at the funeral home. Burial will follow the service at Carmel Cemetery, La Porte.

 

Please send condolences to the family at www.LakeviewFHC.com.