Reverend Paul Heiberg Olson

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Olson, Reverend Paul Heiberg age 88, of New Brighton, MN passed away November 30, 2016. Paul maintained a positive attitude and sense of humor throughout a lengthy illness. Survived by wife of 66 years, Dorothy; children, David (Diane), Karen (Beau), Mary (Jim); grandchildren, Anna, William, Lisette, Scott, Sam, Erin. Preceded in death by parents Herman and Lajla and siblings, Harriet, Robert, William, John, Richard. Paul was born in Duluth and raised in Tower, MN. While in high school he ran his own logging operation, helping to pay for his education to become a pastor. Paul attended Gustavus Adolphus College, Augsburg College, and Augustana Seminary. Pastor Paul served parishes in Vancouver, BC, and Minneapolis, before starting Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Brighton as a new mission in 1961. He ministered in that congregation for 36 years as it grew to a congregation of nearly 3000 members. In later years, his dedication also brought him to serve a parish in Yuma, AZ. He tirelessly served parishioners from youth to seniors. He especially loved working with the youth, bringing them into the boundary waters and camping in Montana. He never considered the ministry as work because it was what he loved. Paul and Dorothy were committed to lives of service and to enjoying life together. Paul had a passion for the outdoors: hunting, fishing, skiing, and canoeing. Paul loved to be with his family at his beloved cabin on Lake Vermilion, a spot he had cherished all of his life. After his retirement, Paul and Dorothy traveled the world. Among his many awards, Paul was proud to receive the Paul Harris Award from the Rotary Club. Upon Paul's retirement, Governor Carlson designated "Paul Heiberg Olson Day in Minnesota". A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 10, 2016 at 2:00 PM at Christ the King Lutheran Church in New Brighton. Visitation will be preceding the service starting at 12:00PM. Memorials preferred to Christ the King Lutheran Church or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's research. Washburn-McReavy.com Northeast Chapel 612-781-6828

Published on December 4, 2016