John T. Olson Sr.

BROWNFIELD – John T. Olson Sr., 87, of Brownfield, passed away peacefully at his home on May 19, 2025 surrounded by loving family.

John was born on Sept. 11, 1937, in Portland. He attended local schools and graduated from Deering High School in 1955. He remained a proud alumnus, enjoying football games through the years – especially the traditional Thanksgiving matchup against Portland High School.

John proudly served in the Marine Corps Reserves from 1955 to 1961, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to service and discipline. He went on to have a long and respected career as a pipe fitter and was a dedicated member of the UA Local 716 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters Union.

He was a man of quiet strength, known for his hard work, integrity, witty humor and devotion to his family. John enjoyed staying active whether at the gym or on the golf course. John and Ruth spent winters in Florida and summers in Maine, returning to Maine full time in 2021 to spend cherished time with his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings and close lifelong friends.

John is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Ruth Flaherty Olson; their children, Jean Olson, Kimberly Olson Clemons and her husband Scott, John Olson Jr. and his wife Rosa, Scott Olson and his wife Kimberly; grandchildren, Melissa Boxer, Justin Stilphen, James Stilphen, Jennifer Clemons Roy, Christopher Clemons, Hanna Olson, Jack Olson and Elisabeth Olson; great-grandchildren, Kyla Hewey, Katie Emerson, Mason Stilphen, and Hunter Stilphen; and many nieces and nephews. His family and friends brought immense joy to his life. Other survivors include his sisters Madelon Sullivan, Margaret Thomas (George Skelton) and brother, Jim Bradley.

John was predeceased by his brother, Ronald J. Olson (1942-1942); his father, John A. Olson (1915-1966); son, Gerald W. Olson (1957-1978); his mother, Emma M. (Majors) Bradley (1916-2010); and his brother, Lewis Bradley Jr. (1957-2020).

A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland, at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Walker Funeral Home of South Portland. To view John’s memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those who knew John to honor his memory by spending time with loved ones or enjoying a round of golf in his name.