Eugene Olafson

Walter Eugene (Gene) Olafson passed away to a better place on April 17, 2024. He had just celebrated his 94th birthday on Monday, April 15th.

Gene was the son of Johannes and Valgerdur (Walter) Olafson, born and raised in Gardar, ND. Gardar being a small Icelandic community in Pembina County. Gene was baptized and confirmed in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Gardar. He was of the graduating class of 1949 Gardar High School. While attending Wahpeton School of Science "Uncle got a hold of him and said he needed help in Korea". Gene served in the Army February 1952 to August 1953. 

Gene was recruited to Melland's Pontiac in Jamestown and worked there from 1962 until they closed in 1984.  If you drove a Pontiac you were a friend. 

Gene and LeaRae Evenson were married August 1956 in Edinburg, ND. They had three children; Clinton, Valerie, and Sheila. They divorced in 1973. Gene and second wife Marge Thorsness were married August 1985 in Jamestown. They had many happy years together.

Gene enjoyed camping, square dancing, puzzles, pinochle, and working on small engines.  Each morning he started his day with cream of wheat and honey. A true Icelander who loved lutefisk, meatballs, cappuccino and care packages of baked goods. He always had a smile and there was no such thing as a short visit. He shared his infectious laugh and famous line ...YOU GOT THAT RIGHT. You didn't call Gene during Judge Judy, Jeopardy, or Lawrence Welk.

He is survived by Clinton Olafson, Valerie Johnson, Sheila (Kevin) Lagodinski, Wade Thorsness, Bruce (Shannon) Thorsness, David (Bev) Thorsness, Brian (Jackie) Thorsness, and many adored grandchildren and great grandchildren; twin sisters Vera (Elroy) Bradvold, and Verna Serverson along with several nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents Johannes and Valgerdur, brother Doran, twin brothers Ronald and Donald, and LeaRae and Marge.

A special thank you to friends Melody Kemmet and Carla Holzer for loving our dad as much as we do.

Memorial service will be Friday, May 17, 2024 at Eddy Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Karl DeMarce officiating. Visitors welcome at 1:00 PM with services starting at 2:00 PM.

 Family requests any memorials be made to St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tappen ND.

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