Oliver Jennings Olafson

Oliver Jennings Olafson (Oly)

March 12, 1931 – June 8, 2025

It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Oliver Jennings Olafson announces his passing in the early hours of June 8, 2025, at the age of 94. He died peacefully at the South East Integrated Care Centre in Moosomin, Saskatchewan.

Oliver was born on March 12, 1931, on the family farm in the Icelandic Holar District near Tantallon, SK, where he spent nearly his entire life. He received his education in Tantallon, often riding to school on horseback, and graduated from Grade 12.

On July 23, 1955, Oliver married the love of his life, Gladys Kellner. Together they raised four children—Keith, Randy, Gayle, and Darren—on the family farm.

A dedicated farmer, Oliver ran a mixed operation, raising Simmental cattle and growing grain. In addition to farming, he lent his time as a school bus driver when needed, always committed to supporting his community.

Oliver was an avid sportsman who played and excelled in hockey, baseball, and curling. His commitment to community extended beyond the rink and the field; he was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, the rink board, and the Pool Elevator board. He also coached minor hockey and the Senior’s Hockey Club, giving back to the sports he so dearly loved.

A spirited card player, Oliver enjoyed games of Canasta and Rummoli with family and neighbours. In retirement, he discovered a passion for travel and cruising, always prioritizing time with his grandchildren—no distance was too far to share in their lives.

Oliver leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and deep love for family and community. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him

Oliver is predeceased by his parents Ingersoll and Alice Olafson; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Louis and Antonette Kellner; siblings George (Judy) Olafson; sister Kathy Lucas; brother Lennard (Shirley) Olafson; brother Tom Olafson; sister Caroline (Barry) Godwin; sister-in-law Beverly Olafson; brother-in-law Stan Knuttila; sister-in-law Marlene Perry; and brother-in-laws Allan Kellner & Victor Moore.

Oliver will be remembered for being a quiet, kind and loving husband, father, and grandfather by his wife Gladys Olafson; sons Keith Olafson and Randy Olafson; daughter Gayle Barilla and her sons Everett and Jared Barilla; son Darren Olafson and his wife Danita and their children Shayla & Ryker. He will also be remembered by his sister Colleen Knuttila; sister-in-law Grace Olafson; brother-in-law Stan Lucas; sister-in-law Marjorie Moore; sister-in-law Sharon Ludwig and her husband Al; as well as many nieces, nephews and families.