James Duane Olson, 72, of Big Falls, Minn., died on Wednesday, April 20, 2022 at his home in Big Falls.

He was born November 21, 1949 in Littlefork, Minn., to Clarence and Delores Olson.

James served his country and was a pilot in the Vietnam War. 

He enjoyed custom woodworking, telling jokes and funny stories, spending time with his grandchildren, Brynna and Judd, and other kids in the family, meeting family and friends at area restaurants, spending time in the forest hunting for unique and natural elements to use in his creations, playing poker with family and friends, and watching the Minnesota Vikings and discussing games with his brother, Ole (Mike), on the phone.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Delores Olson; sister, Patricia Pritchard; and brothers, Samuel Imbleau, Clarence “Clancy” Olson Jr., and Wayne Olson.

James is survived by his son, James Olson the 2nd; daughter, Allescia “Allie” Olson; step-daughter, TaMairah (Dan) Jorgenson; grandchildren, Brynna and Judd; step-grandson, Landon Lyon; brother, Michael “Ole” (Janet) Olson; and sisters, Marie (Dan) Duffy, Audrey (Larry) Smith, Clarice (John) Thompson, and Laura (Dan) Wicklund.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 2 p.m. at the Evergreen Cemetery in Big Falls, Minn., with a lunch to follow in the Legion Room.

Condolences may be left on www.greenlarsen.com

Arrangements are with Green-Larsen Mortuary, Inc.