OLSON, BRUCE GREGORY

Bruce Gregory Olson, 55, died peacefully Saturday, September 28, 2002, at his home following a short battle with cancer.  Bruce was born Dec. 13, 1946, in Manistee, the son of Richard W. and Gwendolyn J. (Smith) Olson and moved to Traverse City with his family in 1955.

A 1965 graduate of Traverse City Senior High School, Bruce earned his degree from Michigan State University, graduating in 1969. He then became associated with the family business, Brown Lumber and Supply, having a 30-year career with the company. Bruce was a member of the Rotary Club of Traverse City and was very involved with The National Cherry Festival, serving as a director, president, trustee and chairman of the trustees. He was a volunteer and past president of the Grand Traverse Area United Way, served as a director and was a past president of the Michigan Lumber Dealers, was a member of the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce and was a member and the treasurer of Eagles Aerie 323 of Traverse City.

Bruce had a love for and was a patron of the Interlochen Center for the Arts. He especially enjoyed spending time with friends over a meal at Round's.

Bruce is survived by his children, Martin B. Olson of Traverse City, and Michelle Olson-Namboothiri of California; his sister, Lani (David) Bathje of Traverse City, and his nephew, Andy Bathje, also of Traverse City.  Bruce was preceded in death by his mother on Dec. 25, 1985, and by his father on Jan. 8, 2002. Also preceding him in death were his maternal and paternal grandparents.      [more]

Posted By: Administrator - 04-11-2005
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