After a well-lived life marked by dedication to family, career, and community service, George E. Olson passed away from COVID induced pneumonia on August 23, 2024, in State College, PA, at the age of 81. Born on August 8, 1943, in Homestead, PA, George was the son of the late Gordon and Fannie (Belcher) Olson. On November 21, 1964 he married fellow Penn State student Jonelynn (Jonni) Griel. They had three children.
George graduated from Munhall High in 1961 and then went on to earn a BS and an MBA in Finance/Accounting from Penn State. He was a Penn State alumnus through and through, with a special fondness for PSU Hockey and Football. Throughout his career at Penn state, he worked in various financial roles including Payroll Management and Research Management. He retired from the position of Financial and Administrative Services Coordinator in the Controller’s office.
But George’s heart and soul were just as invested in his service through the Elks. Since his initiation in 1973, he played many roles over the years including Exalted Ruler, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler, President, Treasurer, State Secretary, State VP, and State President. Many of these posts overlapped with his 29 -year role as the Lodge Secretary from 1984-2013. His dedication and service earned him an Honorary Life Member status in 1987. George was also involved in Tang Soo Do in the 1980s achieving Black Belt status.
George and Jonni shared not only children and grandchildren, but also many beloved pets over the years. He could often be seen walking their dogs in College Heights, the neighborhood where they lived since 1970. The couple also enjoyed many summer vacations in his beloved Empire, MI with their extended family. They were both members of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church.
George is survived by two daughters, Wendy Olson Walker (David) of Medina, OH and Kirsten Olson Leitzinger (Butch) of State College, PA; and four grandchildren, Eirik Olson of Medina, OH; Alexandra Olson of Cleveland OH; Annamae (Maezy) Leitzinger of State College; and Henry Leitzinger of State College. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, son (Christian John Olson), four siblings: Bob, Sally (Bungert), Bill and Chuck, and son-in-law David Walker.
George will be remembered as kind, funny, intelligent and dedicated. He was the kind of person who could light up a room with his humor and charm, and then hit you with a factoid that would have you pondering for days. Throughout his life, he wove a rich tapestry. His loss will leave many heavy-hearted.
Friends and family will be received from 1 – 4pm on Sunday, September 8, 2024 Koch Funeral Home, 2401 S. Atherton St, State College.
An additional visitation will be held from 12 – 1pm on Monday, September 9, 2024 at the funeral home. A Memorial Service including an Elks Service will follow at 1pm with Deacon Jack Orlandi officiating.
Memorial contributions may be given in George’s memory to the State College Elks Local Charities Fund c/o The State College Elks Lodge #1600 PO Box 8, Boalsburg, PA 16827.