Wayne Paul Olson, age 63 of Franklin, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, December 15, 2017 at his home.  Memorial services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 21, 2017 at the Redwood Valley Funeral Home in Redwood Falls.  Visitation will be one hour prior to the service.  Interment will follow in the Fort Ridgely and Dale Cemetery, rural Franklin.  Stephens Funeral Service – Redwood Valley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Wayne Paul Olson was born May 11, 1954 in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota to Arnold and Adora (Pederson) Olson.  He was baptized and confirmed at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Franklin.  He attended Franklin Public School and graduated in 1972.  Wayne furthered his education at Willmar Vocational School for 2 years, studying accounting.  He worked for Shelter Products in New Ulm as a bookkeeper, Jackpot Junction as a security guard, Franklin Care Center as a nurse’s aide, and was also a volunteer driver for the elderly.  He was member of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Franklin where he served on the church council, as an usher, and helped in the kitchen for funerals.  Wayne enjoyed watching movies, loved animals – especially his cat, Thomas, and he loved his independence.

Wayne is survived by his siblings: Pamela (Robert) Valentin of Franklin, Douglas (Jean) Olson of Montevideo; half-sister Marilyn (Lee) Gibson of Springfield, IL; half-brother David Olson of IL; many nieces and nephews, including his godchildren Karen Malecek and Bridget Peck; and his aunt Marilyn Pederson.  He was preceded in death by his parents, and grand niece and nephew Mya & Mason Valentin.