Leslie “Les” George Olsen, 77, of Timberland passed away on Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at Sacred Heart Hospital surrounded by his children and sisters following a brief illness.

Les was born on November 29, 1945, in Cumberland, WI, to George and Gladys (Olson) Olsen. He graduated from Cumberland High School in 1963 and recently enjoyed attending his 60th class reunion. He lived his entire life on his family’s century farm in Timberland, first operating a dairy farm for several decades and later enjoying the land while working for TSU and Terry Leckel trucking. Over the years, Les traveled to Iceland, Norway, Mexico, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, and many locations across the continental United States. Even so, the place he loved most was Timberland. He loved coffee at the Ericksons, drinks at the “corner”, breakfasts in Barronett and Indian Creek, and mowing lawns for neighbors - especially Roosevelt Hills following its transformation from the schoolhouse where he had attended elementary school many years prior. Les was a kind, generous, humble man who would go out of his way to help anyone in need. He was a gentle giant of sorts, measured in both stature and the size of his heart. He had a great sense of humor and could pick up a conversation with anyone. The most important things in life to him were his family and his friendships. He genuinely cared about everyone he met and was loved and respected by all who knew him.

Les will be dearly missed by his children, William “Bill” (Jeanette) Olsen and Summer (Travis) Fountaine grandchildren, Alexa (Chris) Lowry, Tianna Olsen, Taylor (Evan) Havick, Gavin Fountaine, and Torin Fountaine; great-grandson, Mason Lowry; sisters Lucille (Gary) Twining and Margaret (Bruce) Madison nieces and nephews, Brenda (Don) Hohweiler, Steve Madison (Deb), Jacki (Troy) Taubman, and Mike (Karissa) Twining. He was preceded in death by special friend, Patti Albright, and his four-legged best friend, Ole.

A celebration of Les’ life will be held on Sunday, October 8, 2023, from 1 to 4pm at Roosevelt Hills, 2695 Timberland Rd., Barronett, WI. A short memorial service will be held at 3pm followed by a light lunch.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the Humane Society of Burnett County.

Last Update: Sep 28, 2023 11:56 am CDT