Swede Olson

Ralph E "Swede" Olson, born on March 25, 1934, in Troy, Idaho, passed away peacefully at his home in Troy on May 30, 2026. He was a dedicated and hardworking individual whose life reflected a rich tapestry of work, family, and personal interests.

Swede's educational journey took place in Troy, Idaho, where he attended school through the 10th grade. At the young age of 14 he entered the workforce often juggling 2 jobs at a time including a “Pond Monkey” for local sawmills and farming with local farmers. Over the years, he built a remarkable career that spanned various fields. In the 1950’s He learned the art of working with fiberglass in California then brought his expertise and knowledge to Spokane where he went on to craft fiber form boats. He and his crew actually worked on the gondolas for the world’s fair in Spokane. Later, Swede opened his own company, Border Industrial where he developed his own concrete sealing product. He served as a travel contractor for the government utilizing his sealant to repair airport runways. He and his family actually traveled to Anchorage, AK one summer to repair jet fuel tanks for the airport that had been damaged by earthquakes in the area.

Beyond his professional life, Swede was known for his love of music. He was vastly self-taught on several musical instruments. when he was14 he received a guitar from his grandmother Asplund with 2 strings, once he mastered the 2 strings he was given the rest of the strings, which launched his love of music. His grandmother Asplund also owned a pump organ which he learned to play from her front porch, that led to his ability to play the accordion and eventually lead to his love of the keyboard that he was so well known for

He enjoyed playing the keyboard and singing, sharing his musical talents with those around him while playing in several bands. He worked for several years through out the Lewiston area including his karaoke in the Elks and Moose lodges. He also had a large following throughout the Moscow, Troy, Deary area as well as Winchester for his wonderful music.

Swede also pursued several other interests during his lifetime; he had a pilot’s license that allowed him to fly hunters for a hunting expedition to the Selway. While living in Genesse, Swede and Kay raised, bred and trained horses. In his retirement years he was an avid car trader, always finding a good deal to wheel and deal on! As well as an astute pocket watch collector.

Swede is lovingly remembered by his wife, Kay Olson, and his children Wade (Korrine), Leea (Rick), Tracy (Rob), Julie, Steve, and Kelly along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, his brother Dick Olson and sister Margie Schaper

He was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin Olson and Sybil Asplund and son Scott Shawver

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