Ivan L. Olson, age 98, a resident of River Wood Estates, Manitowoc, formerly of 922 North 11th Street, Manitowoc, entered eternal life on Monday afternoon, April 18, 2011 at Holy Family Memorial Medical Center, Manitowoc.

Ivan was born September 13, 1912 in Manitowoc. He was the son of the late Martin and Minnie Helwig Olson. Ivan attended Lincoln High School and graduated with the class of 1931. On October 23, 1940 he married Evelyn Theisen at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Manitowoc. She preceded him in death on November 3, 1981. Ivan was employed with Manitowoc Company as an engineer for 42 years retiring in 1977. He also owned and operated Olson's Gun Repair in Manitowoc for many years. Ivan was known throughout neighboring counties for his skill as a gunsmith. He was a member of the National Rifle Association, Brown County Sportsman's Association and the Rochea Hunting Club. In past years Ivan enjoyed hunting, fishing, shooting skeet and sporting clays.

He is survived by two daughters: Pamela Dawson, Weston, Connecticut; Barbara (William) Ramsey, Santa Rosa, California; three grandchildren; three great grandchildren; also nieces, nephews along with other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents: Martin and Minnie Olson; his wife: Evelyn; four brothers.

A celebration of Ivan's life will be held at the Harrigan Parkside Funeral Home, North 11th and St. Clair streets, Manitowoc on Thursday, April 28, 2011 at 11 am. The family will greet relatives and friends at the funeral home from 10:30 am until the time of the service at 11 am. Burial will take place at Evergreen Cemetery.