Russell "Rusty" J. Olson

Russell “Rusty” J. Olson, age 84 of Oshkosh, passed away on Friday, September 29, 2017 with his family by his side. He was born on February 23, 1933 in Pearson, Wisconsin the son of the late James and Anna (Monnot) Olson. Rusty graduated from Elcho High School and furthered his education in college to become a barber. He worked in several barbershops and retired from his own business, Olson Barber in Beaver Dam in 1988. He then worked at UW-Oshkosh for 10 years as a janitor, helping set up for sporting events. He was united in marriage to Betty J. Ellner on October 10, 1959 in Crandon. Their marriage was blessed with two children. Rusty proudly served our country in the Army, and was a member at Most Blessed Sacrament Church- St. Peter Site. Rusty was a member of Fraternal Order of Eagles #270 in Fond du Lac, The American Legion #146 and past commander in Beaver Dam and Dodge County Voiture Locale 856. Rusty had a band, Rhythm Aires, and played the guitar; they would play weddings and events. Rusty enjoyed playing cribbage, fishing, going to car shows with Jack, Ron and Scott; bowling, watching the Packers, Brewers and Badgers. Betty and him loved to travel all over the US and Canada. He cherished spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be missed by everyone in his family.
Rusty is survived by his wife, Betty of 57 years, daughter, Mary, four grandchildren: Mitchell, Emily, Bonnie, James, Evelyn; Great-grandchildren: Joeley, Jayden, Avie, Camdyn; sisters-in-law: Kathy Monnot and Sharon Pahlow; brother-in-law, Gary (Carol) Ellner; he is further survived by many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Rusty was preceded in death by a son, Michael, grandson, Vincent, brother, Robert; sister-in-law, Carol (Marvin) Reinke; and brother-in-law, Robert Pahlow.
Funeral Service will be at 1:30 pm on Friday, October 6, 2017 at Konrad-Behlman Funeral Home-Westside, 100 Lake Pointe Drive, with Father Jerry Pastors officiating. Friends and family may visit at the funeral home from 12:30 pm until the time of service. Interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Oshkosh with Military Honors.
The family would like to thank Affinity Hospice for their wonderful care that was given to Rusty. Your kindness will never be forgotten.