Wesley W. Olson

Wesley W. Olson, 86, of Dover, died Wednesday, January 16, 2008 in Park Village Health Care Center at Dover.A son of the late Carl and Ellen (Almquist) Olson, Wesley was born on April 26, 1921 at Ridgeway, Pennsylvania.Wesley was a 1939 graduate of Ridgeway High School and then received an Engineering degree while attending college at California.Upon completion of his formal education, he enlisted with the United States Army. During World War II, he served as a Private First Class with Company B in the 28th Infantry. During his service to his country, Wesley received numerous medals and citations but he was most proud of receiving a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.On September 24, 1950, Wesley married the love of his life, the former Hazel Carlton in the Plant City United Methodist Church at Florida. The couple shared 57 years of marriage prior to Hazel passing on December 16, 2007.Following his honorable discharge form the Army, Wesley was stationed at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base at Dayton. Wesley and Hazel then relocated from the Xenia, Ohio area to Dover where they resided for the past 40 years. Wesley retired from Joy Manufacturing and was an active member of the First United Methodist Church at Dover.He was a master craftsman and was well known for his woodworking abilities. Some of his favorite items to make were toy cars and trains. He would also make items to donate to his church for fundraisers and keepsakes for his family and friends. The true joy in Wesley’s life was his grandson, Zachary. Wesley is survived by two sons, Stanford (Faye) Olson of New Philadelphia and Dwight Olson of Dover; a grandson, Zachary Olson of New Philadelphia and a sister, Geneva Laughner of Elkland, Pennsylvania.He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Hazel; a sister, Florence Streich and a brother, David Olson.The family will receive guests on Sunday, January 20, 2008 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover. A funeral service celebrating Wesley’s life will held on Monday, January 21, 2008 at 10 a.m. in the Geib Funeral Center with Rev. Larry Black officiating. Following the service, Wesley will be laid to rest along side Hazel in Ridgecrest Memory Gardens at Dover.Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and view an online memorial by visiting the funeral home website.Geib330-343-5506www.geibfuneral.com