Tod (Theodore Alexander) Olson

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Olson, Tod (Theodore Alexander) of Long Lake, MN and Idaho Falls, Idaho passed away from complications of multiple myeloma on November 12, 2016 at his home in Idaho Falls, ID. He was 83. Tod was born December 20, 1932 and grew up in Minneapolis, MN graduating from Washburn High School. Tod married Jacquelyn Joanne Pankratz of Mountain Lake MN in 1952. They made their home in Long Lake, MN until 1997, when they split their time between homes in Minnesota and Idaho. After earning degrees from the Universities of Minnesota and Michigan, Tod began his career in 1959 at General Mills as a food science researcher, pioneering the use of computers in research. In 1975, he joined Control Data Corporation where his career followed the rapid advance of computers. He led the development of early optical data storage, later becoming the head of Product Management and Planning. He completed his career by returning to General Mills as Director of Information Technology and was widely regarded as a talented manager of both technology and people. After his retirement in 1991, citizens of Long Lake encouraged Tod to run for mayor. He was elected and served two terms from 1992 to 1996. His organizational and people skills were instrumental in resolving the controversial Highway 12 routing project. Tod had a broad range of interests. From his teens, Tod (K0TO) was a passionate amateur radio operator, and a lifelong member and leader of the American Radio Relay League. He was a "maker", inventing and building many things in his home workshop and was an early adopter of nearly everything. He was also an avid backpacker, organizing trips with family and friends to his favorite trails in Glacier National Park. Tod is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Jacquelyn Olson of Idaho Falls; brother, Dr. Robert Olson of Minneapolis; son, Thor (Poldi Gerard) Olson of Minneapolis; son, Dr. Eric (Rhonda) Olson of Idaho Falls; daughter, Laurie (Richard) Baumgartner of Plymouth, MN; daughter, Lynn (Dan) Munson of Maplewood, MN; son, John (Becky) Olson of Apple Valley, MN; 11 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. A memorial service is planned for 1:00 pm December 10 at Trinity Lutheran Church, 2060 County Rd 6, Long Lake MN; family visitation one hour before service. Throughout his life, Tod was a teacher to many, of both skills and "Life Lessons." Memorials may be directed to the donor's choice of organizations that teach others. Rettinger Funeral Home 952-473-6954

Published on December 4, 2016