On Sunday, December 12, 2021, William (Bill) E. Olson, Caledonia, IL, loving husband, father of two children and grandfather of two, passed away at the age of 66. Bill was born in Rockford, Illinois on August 1, 1955, to Roger and Helen (Knodle) Olson.

After graduating from Guilford High School in 1974, he and his friend, Bruce Kluckhohn hitched-hiked across the United States. Upon returning back home, he married the love of his life, Kathleen (Kathy), on October 26,1974, in Rockford, IL. Together they had two beautiful children, Kyle and Kayla (Dahlstrand).

In the beginning of his career, Bill was employed at W.A. Whitney working his way up to supervisor. He worked at H & R Block for a few years before becoming a caregiver to our son, Kyle and his mother, Helen. Bill enjoyed many passions in his life. A few of these included being a member of Guilford High ROTC Team, Boy Scout Troop #425 and the Winnebago Rifle Team. He and his dad shared these similar interests along with building several homes and remodeling projects. In 1945, the family's grandfather Howard Knodle, purchased and built a summer cottage in St. Germain, Wisconsin. Bill and his siblings own the cottage today. Many happy memories are at the cottage with grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends enjoying the cottage life and lake view. Bill was an avid gardener, fisherman, loved the farm and wildlife. He adored our dog Maggie, who was with him when he passed. Earlier in life, camping trips out west to see his brother, Dave was another favorite thing to do. His enjoyment in life was listening to loud music and watching his favorite teams: the Chicago Blackhawks, Bulls, Bears, and Cubs play on tv. His love of sports in his younger days included playing on a church league softball team which consisted of his brother, uncle, cousins, and friends. Growing up in a Methodist based family he continued his faith by becoming an active member of Hunter United Methodist Church. He was elected as a trustee, serving the church family for many years.

Survived by wife Kathleen, children: Kyle and Kayla (Tyler) Dahlstrand. Grandchildren: Ellie and Eli Dahlstrand. Siblings: Laura Jernigan, Jonathon (Cora) Olson, and David Olson. His in-laws: Cynthia (Chuck Renaud) Martinson, Jeffrey (Jackie) Martinson, and Rebecca (Tom) Maier. Also, survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Preceded in death by his parents Roger and Helen Olson and brother Stephen Olson along with father and mother in-law James and Joanne (Smith) Martinson. Additionally, close family members have preceded him in death.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, December 15, 2021, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hunter United Methodist Church, 3315 Hunter Road, Caledonia, IL 61011. Funeral service will be on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 11:00 a.m., at Hunter United Methodist Church. Burial service will be at Livingston Cemetery, in Caledonia, IL, immediately following funeral service.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be sent to Boone County Animal Services 4546 Squaw Prairie Rd, Belvidere, IL 61008 or Hunter United Methodist Church.