Jack Dean Olson

Jack Dean Olson died in San Ramon, California on November 4, 2023. He was born on January 13, 1934 in Madison, Wisconsin to Dean Merrill Olson and Minnie (Johnson) Olson. He was athletically active in high school, playing on the basketball team and in the band. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and shortly moved to the Bay Area in California where he lived the rest of his life. His beloved Wisconsin, and the Wisconsin Badgers, were always home base and he cherished his childhood memories in Madison. Jack loved golf, skiing, and sporting events and was an avid fan of San Francisco sports teams. He loved his days at Castlewood CC and Crow Canyon CC and the camaraderie of his fellow golf companions, and was justifiably proud of his three holes in one! Hobbies included painting and playing the violin which he was introduced to in his youth. Travels to Europe were a highlight and he loved to talk of his excursions throughout the continent. One of his travel high points was his African safari with his grand nephew, Todd Slack, who shared the adventure. Jack was an executive in a Credit Bureau company before striking out on his own and starting National Tennant Information Services and Business Information Services which he ran until his death. His entrepreneurial spirit was innate and he had several side businesses he enjoyed. He was known to provide “the shirt off his back” to anyone who needed help and was a loyal friend and relative. Being a Big Brother in San Francisco meant a lot to Jack and exemplified the kindness of his character. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Merrilyn Olson (Slack) Knud-Hansen. Survivors include his long time loving partner Wynne Dalley, nephew Steve Slack and nieces Srimati Kamala, Susan Skinner and Sherri Koelbel. Jack will be missed by all who knew him.