Raymond Olson

Ray L. Olson, 69, of Great Falls, a truck driver, died on Saturday, November 19, 2011 at a local hospital of a heart attack. Funeral services will be held at Hillcrest Lawn Memorial Chapel on Wednesday, November 23, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. Visitation will be at Schnider Funeral Home on Tuesday, November 22, 2011 at 12:00 to 7:00 p.m.Schnider Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.Raymond L. Olson was born on September 12, 1942 to Veda Rose and George Olson in Williston, North Dakota.He graduated in Mandan, ND, in 1960 and moved to Great Falls shortly thereafter.He worked in construction, mechanics and truck driving in Montana and retired from Great Falls Redi-Mix in2009.Ray loved music and played bass guitar and sang in his rich baritone with his band of buddies.He enjoyed gardening, especially growing hot peppers and tomatoes and had a wonderful green thumb.He also had a special place in his heart for animals - a moose named Bullwinkle was a special friend.His artistic side was evident in his leatherwork and he created many unique items for family and friends.Ray loved spending time with friends and many memories were created of his contagious laugh and generous spirit.Ray is survived by his son Scott Olson of Washington; daughter, Brenda Lazaroff of Chicago, IL; sisters Celina Russell of Black Eagle and Shelia Jackson of Great Falls; brothers Joseph Olson of Soda Springs, ID, Rodney Olson, Gabe Beauchman, Mike Beauchman, and Ryan Olson all of Great Falls, and seven grandchildren.Ray was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Brad Olson; sister RaeEtta Kimmel, sister-in-law Patty Olson and his beloved partner, Arlene Naillon.Memorials can be sent to the Great Falls Animal Shelter.