Olafur Allan Olson

Olafur (Allan) Olson

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Olafur (Allan) Olson at Gimli Community Health Centre on October 17, 2019.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis of 63 years; children Jona and David (Jennifer); grandchildren Jennifer (Jamie), Dustin, Erik and Karl; great-grandchildren Jakob and Jerika; sister Carole; sister-in-law Colleen; nephews Norman (Darlene), Tim, Joel (Laurie) and Louis (Tia).

He was predeceased by his parents Elinborg and Olafur; brother Arni; sister-in-law Wilda; son-in-law Randy; grandson Kristjan and granddaughter-in-law Amanda.

Allan was born July 9, 1930 in Winnipeg. He grew up in Kirkfield Park where he had very fond memories that he spoke of often. His love of animals (especially bulldogs) started here at an early age with his first dog Pal.

In 1953, Al graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Degree in Agriculture and Education. That same year he was introduced to Phyllis. They married in 1956 and Jona and David followed soon after.

Allan’s career as an educator took the family to many places around the world. Somewhere very special to him was Africa where he taught in Uganda and Nigeria from 1964-1969. While there the family travelled extensively to many destinations throughout Africa and Europe. Africa introduced Allan to several loves; two in particular being Volvos and Curry.

Upon returning to Canada, Al became a principal in Killarney. After being a principal for 5 years it was time to move to the next level in teaching. In 1975, he moved the family to Gimli where he became Superintendent of the Evergreen School Division. Shortly after, they built their family home “Víðines” where his passion for gardening flourished. One of his favorite things to plant was gladiolus; he loved sharing and bragging about them with everyone. He retired from education but was called back not long after to help out as a Principal of Peguis/Fisher River Schools. He cherished his time there.

Allan was a lifelong member of the NDP, Kiwanis, Masons and Shriners. Many will remember him running the hot dog booth (Afi’s Búð) in the Pavilion at the Islendingadagurinn. He was always very proud of his Icelandic roots and combining both was always special to him.

Family was something that was very important to Allan and he didn’t go a day without boasting about one family member or another.   Allan, Dad, Afi, Lang Afi and Uncle Al – you will be deeply missed and forever loved by all.  

Our family would like to thank all of the staff at the Gimli Community Health Centre for the care given to Allan. Thank you to Dr. Ade for Allan’s care over the past few years, as well as, the Home Care staff that helped keep Allan home for as long as possible.

In keeping with his wishes cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday November 2 at 1:00 PM at Johnson Hall in the Waterfront Centre in Gimli, Manitoba.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gimli Kiwanis Club; Box 1368 Gimli, MB R0C 1B0 or a charity of your choice as Allan loved to give to others every chance that he could.

Condolences may be left on his tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Gimli in care of arrangements.

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