John Robert Olson died peacefully on April 29, 2026 at his home at the foothills of the Big Horn Mountains surrounded by his family. John was born on January 30, 1932, in the old Sheridan Hospital, and grew up with the Wyoming mountains in his view and in his heart. The son of Norton and Francis Olson, John spent his early childhood on his grandparents’ ranch on Meade Creek before the family moved to Story, where he attended the town’s one-room schoolhouse. Later ,after moving to Sheridan, he graduated from Sheridan High School in1949. In high school, he served as the school photographer.

Following graduation, John earned an appointment to the United States Naval Academy, where he graduated 13th out of the 925 midshipmen in his Class of 1953 and was commissioned as a Naval Officer. The Navy became one of the great loves of his life. He served aboard the USSO’ Brien (DD725) during the Korean War, then attended submarine school before becoming Chief Engineer on the USS Gudgeon (SS567).During his time aboard, the Gudgeon conducted covert surveillance in Soviet territorial waters and became the first submarine to circumnavigate the globe. John later served as Missile Officer on the USS Patrick Henry (SSBN599), continuing the work he was proudest of—quietly serving his country beneath the sea.

After leaving the Navy, John continued applying his technical skills and steady leadership during a long career with General Electric Under sea Systems.

Despite living and working in many places, John’s heart never left Sheridan. At the age of 82, he returned to his childhood hometown, drawn back by memories of Sheridan and the Bighorn Mountains. He spent his later years enjoying their familiar silhouette, the changing light on the peaks, and the companionship of his beloved dog, Tilly.

John is survived by his former wife, Diane Young Olson of Ocean Grove, New Jersey; his brother, James (Sandy) Olsson of Dallas, Texas; his children Peter (Maureen) Olson of Sheridan, Wyoming; Kristen (Don)Olson of Byron, Wyoming; Andrew (Evey) Olson of Liverpool, New York; and Gretchen (Alan) Yallowitz of Little Falls, New York; as well as11 grandchildren and 14 greatgrandchildren.

He will be remembered as a loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather; a proud naval officer; a man who found peace in the mountains of home; and someone who always appreciated a good glass of whiskey.

Military Honors will be held May 25, 2026 at Champion Kane Funeral Home, starting at 10:00 a.m.

Champion Kane Funeral Home has been entrusted with local arrangements.

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