John Michael Olson

John Michael Olson, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and close friends at UH Geauga Hospital. Born on May 28, 1954, in Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, John lived a life full of love, adventure, and service. John was the beloved son of the late John Joseph and Anna Lavaigne (Bradley) Olson. He was predeceased by his brother Joe Olson and sister-in-law Chris Olson. John's spirit and legacy continue through his devoted wife, Annette Olson, whom he married on March 28, 2020, in Windham, Ohio, after rekindling their love and embarking on a joyful journey together. He leaves behind a large and loving family, including his children: Matthew (Rebecca) Olson, Tawnya (Chad) Smith, and Lindsay Greene (Eric), as well as stepchildren James Davis Jr., Pacience Trent (Keith), and Rick Craft (Jessica). John was a proud and doting grandfather to Dylan, Ethan (Harli), Brayden, Ava, Kenedi, Andersen, Issac, Brayson, Amelia, Brix, Layne, Ellie, and Silas, and a great-grandfather to Sebastian. His siblings Patricia (Gene) Duffy, Monica (Gary) Miller, Anna (Kevin) Malone, Jim Olson (Sally), and Marian Angus (Jody) will cherish his memory, alongside many nieces and nephews. Close friends Jim and Crystal Ward were also constants in his life, sharing countless memories and adventures. A graduate of Windham High School in 1972, John pursued a career dedicated to public service. He attended the Police Academy and served with distinction at the Portage County Sheriff’s Department, the Garrettsville Police Department, and as a Sergeant on the Windham Police Department. John further demonstrated his commitment to his community as a Windham Volunteer Fireman. After his service in law enforcement, he embarked on a new path as a Home Modification Specialist at Access to Independence, where he worked for 20 years before retiring in 2021. John was an active member of the Garrettsville Eagles FOE 2705 and the Christ Community Chapel in Hudson. His passion for life extended beyond his professional and community endeavors. An avid hunter, he never missed an opening day and relished time spent at his camp with family and friends. John and Annette shared many adventures traveling, cruising, and riding their Harley. His grandchildren, nieces, and nephews were his pride and joy, and he loved riding the trails in his side-by-side, playing in the mud, and enjoying ice cream at Corkey’s. John had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel welcomed and loved. His warm spirit and generous heart touched all who knew him. He will be profoundly missed but fondly remembered by all whose lives he enriched. A Celebration of Life will be held on November 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the American Legion, located at 9960 East Center St., Windham, OH 44288. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorial contributions be made to the Windham Volunteer Fire Department in John's honor.