Milo Olson

Milo Andrew James Olson, 87, of Plentywood, MT, passed away May 5, 2023, in Billings MT with his family by his side. Milo was born on April 16, 1936, to Pearl Boyd and Andrew James Olson in Minton Saskatchewan, Canada. At 11 months of age, Milo's father passed away and his mother moved him and his older sister Lila to Plentywood, MT.

Milo was a go-getter; he obtained a job at Pepsi Cola Factory when he was only in the 6th grade to earn money to buy the bike of his dreams continuing his employment until 1969. Milo received his schooling in Plentywood, MT. During high school Milo participated in band, played football, basketball, and baseball during the summer, eventually graduating in 1954. After graduation, Milo found joy in playing slow-pitch softball and umpiring softball games.

He married Adrienne Syme in 1958, having their first child Nicholas who sadly passed away only hours after birth. They were blessed with another son, Jeff, and their daughter Wendy Sue, before later divorcing in May of 1963.

Milo married Cheryl Wankel in 1964, remaining married for 59 years until Milo's passing. Milo began working at Westland Oil after leaving Pepsi Cola. He was also a member of the National Guard for 20 years, another source of pride for Milo. After moving on from Westland Oil he became a farmer at Wankel Farms, which he continued farming until his retirement.

Milo had many activities and hobbies including bowling, hunting, and snowmobiling which became his and Cheryl's yearly vacation to West Yellowstone. He did a lot of bragging about his snowmobile racing, and it was always a great conversation over coffee or a cold beer, for whom many had the pleasure of sharing that time with him.

Milo often took his grandchildren to get an ice cream treat, he would try to say it was their idea, but everyone knew that he was the one with the sweet tooth. Milo had a big heart, which was known by everyone, including their next-door neighbor, who were welcomed as grandchildren of their own. Milo was an avid collector of coins and beanie babies which he also shared with his beloved grandchildren.

Milo was preceded in death by his infant son Nicholas, his parents, stepfather Julius Johnson, brother-in-law Edward Jensen, sister Lila Jensen, brother-in-law James Wankel, and many aunts and uncles.

Milo is survived by his wife, Cheryl, son Jeff, daughter Wendy Sue Fellers (Matt), Grandchildren Jenni (David) Keniston, Shauna (Brandon) Broady, Cara (Mark) Bowers and Aaron Fellers. Great grandchildren Jordy, Wyatt, Magnolia Keniston, Aaron Britton, Bronson, Alivia Broady, Ellie and Leila Montgomery. Chosen grandchildren; Tracy, Amber, Michael, and Hallie Hendrickson. And how could anyone forget their beloved dog, Annie.

Also surviving are nieces & nephews: Sharon (Robert) Anderson & family; Deborah (Greg) Cavanaugh & family; Mark (Deanna) Jensen & family; Pam (Casey) Marlenee & family. Cousins Gene (Edie) Ritland, & family; Family of deceased cousin, Don (Valerie) Benson; Cousins Marion Pohle & family and extended family of deceased cousins living in Saskatchewan. Brother-in-law, Tom (Kathy) Wankel & family. Cousins Claudette Delger and Ronald Clark as well as several of Cheryl's other cousins & family.

Graveside services and burial at 11:00 am on June 30, 2023, at Huffman-Wankel cemetery Northeast of Raymond & North of Plentywood. If you are interested, a carpool will be available at Angel Light Catering in Plentywood, leaving at 10:30 am. Luncheon to follow at Angel Light Catering at 12:00 pm.