Daniel Jake Olson

Danny (Daniel) Jake Olson left this world peacefully and surrounded by his closest loved ones Aug. 8, 2023. Danny was born in Omak, Wash., to Theodore (Ted) and Ruth (Ruthie) Olson on Aug. 15, 1961. He grew up in the Okanogan Valley and loved to be in the great outdoors; you could often find him hunting or fishing in the early hours of the morning and cutting firewood in the afternoons. In 1984, Danny married Kathryn (Kathy) Gillespie, and they started their family together, welcoming their eldest daughter Linda (Snoops) into the world in April 1985, followed by their youngest daughter Rachelle (Squeezer) in October 1986. Despite divorcing in 1994, the two spent far more years in friendship than not, and Kathy was still a dear friend to Danny in his final hours. Danny was a handyman, skilled in electrical, plumbing, welding, muffler work, mechanic work, and construction. He also loved to sing and spent many years running karaoke all over the valley; from The Cariboo to The Moose, to weddings and gatherings, he always brought the fun and his love for music along with it. Danny was best known for his larger-than-life personality, warm smile, and for bringing laughter to any room; even in his final hours, he found the strength to bring smiles to the faces of those beside him. He will be so greatly missed. Danny is survived by his two daughters, Linda McLane and Rachelle Gaines (Robby, aka Robear); five grandchildren, Katrina and Trae (Larry) Olson-Hendrickson, Aiden, Connor, and Caleb Gaines; his father, Theodore (Ted) and Mom, Linda Olson; his sisters, Darla Price (James), Bonita Olson, and Deanna Caryl (Dwight), his brother Theodore Olson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Danny was preceded in death by his mother, Ruthie (Davis) Byrd; his sister, Sonja (Olson) Signor; his brother, Bjarne Olson Sr.; his nephews, Allen Willis and Bobby Smith; and his niece, Ashlie Smith. Services will be at 3 p.m., Friday, Sept. 22, 2023, at Okanogan Valley Memorial Gardens 214 Conconully Rd., Okanogan, WA 98840, with a celebration reception to follow directly after (Location TBA). Regardless of when you knew him in his life or how many years may have passed since you last connected, we would be honored to have you come to celebrate his life with us. Attire is casual, and the family asks that you come dressed comfortably in his honor. We would love to see as many people as possible donning his go-to wardrobe piece, Dickies Bibs. Dinner and dessert will be served.

Daniel Jake Olson

August 15, 1961 - August 8, 2023