Donald E. "Ole" Olson, 77, of Cedar Rapids died with his family at his side Saturday afternoon, December 31, 2005 at Mercy Medical Center following a brief illness.

Funeral services will be held at 10:30 am on Wednesday, January 4, 2006 at Brosh Chapel, Cedar Rapids with Reverend William Harnish, officiating.  Interment will follow at Czech National Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.  Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 pm on Tuesday at Brosh Chapel, Cedar Rapids.

Don was born on June 13, 1928 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Lawrence and Eleanora (Sternad) Olson.  He served in the US Army during the Korean War on the front lines.  On July 6, 1958 he married Delores Rohlena at Hus Memorial Presbyterian Church in Cedar Rapids.  Don worked as an expeditor for the US Postal Service and also farmed in the Cedar Rapids and Ely areas.  He also helped Delores with the day care she operated in their home.  Don and Delores were also proud to serve as foster parents from 1967 until 2004.  In this time they cared for well over 200 children.  Don was a past member of the Swisher American Legion.

Survivors include his wife of 47 years Delores Olson of Cedar Rapids, brothers Robert (Cindy) Olson and Ray (Marilyn) Olson all of Cedar Rapids.  Don is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother Richard.

A memorial fund has been established for Camp Courageous.