Herbert Eugene Olson, 87, of Hiawatha, died Friday morning, March 31, 2017, at Hiawatha Community Hospital.

He was born August 25, 1929, in St. Joseph, Missouri, one of two sons born to Charles and Vivian Jacques Olson and had lived in northeast Kansas his entire life. He grew up in the Highland-Robinson areas and graduated from Robinson High School with the class of 1949. In high school, he played basketball. He served two years in the U.S. Army before he was discharged in 1957. Herb returned to this area and worked for the Robinson Co op for many years until he retired.

Herbert was a member of the First Baptist Church Family Life Center in Hiawatha. He enjoyed camping and spending time with family and friends. He never met a stranger, loved to talk to anyone who would listen. Later in life, he enjoyed bird watching.

He married the former Betty Adams, July 10, 1955. She survives of the home.

Also surviving are five sons: Douglas (Lisa) Olson of Hiawatha, Steve (Robin) Olson of Burlington Junction, MO, Charles (Teresa) Olson of Hiawatha, Jeffery (Margaret) Olson of Hiawatha, Rick (Mary) Olson of Hiawatha; two daughters: Teresa (Gary) Campbell of Clarksdale, MO, Pamela (Steven) Gunnells of Nolensville, TN; 16 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by an aunt Ruth Montague.

Herb was preceded in death by his parents; and a brother James.

A Celebration of Herbert’s life is planned for 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 4, at the First Baptist Church Family Life Center, with Pastor James Callaway officiating. Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery, Robinson. The family will meet with friends from 6 until 8 Monday evening at Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Family Life Center, sent in care of the funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434. A special message or remembrance may be sent to the family at www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com