Alan Kay Olson

Alan Kay Olson, age 80, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend to many, peacefully passed away on January 17, 2024, in Washington City, Utah. He was surrounded by the warmth of his loved ones. 

He was born March 17, 1943, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to loving parents Roland Lars Olson and Estella Goddard Olson. He was raised in St. George, Utah, were he graduated from Dixie High School. He honorably served a mission for the LDS church in Stockholm, Sweden, at the age of 18. Shortly after his mission he proudly served our country as a Chinook helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War. His courage and selflessness were evident throughout his military career and continued to define him long after he returned home.

After Vietnam, Alan embarked on a new chapter as one of the first airline pilots hired by SkyWest Airlines. For over three decades, he faithfully served as an airline captain. Flying was his passion. He cherished the relationships he built with his co-workers and passengers that he considered family and friends. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Alan had a passion for exploration and adventure. His love for travel took him to exotic destinations across nearly every continent. From bustling cities to remote corners of the world, he embraced new cultures with open arms and an insatiable curiosity.

In addition to flying and traveling, Alan found joy in riding Harleys. The thrill of the open road brought him immense happiness throughout his life. He continued to ride until his late 70’s. Because of his love for riding, he opened a motorcycle shop called Desert Thunder Motorcycles in St. George, Utah, with his close friend Don.  

Alan was a man deeply rooted in community spirit; he was a longtime member of the Elks Lodge where he formed lasting friendships while contributing to charitable causes close to his heart. Every Wednesday evening you could find him dancing and mingling over a well-cooked steak at the lodge. Later in life you could find Alan at Bishop's Cafe sharing stories with fellow friends and veterans that served in Vietnam. 

His family was the center of his life. When anyone of his family members was in need, you would find him right by their side. He loved family gatherings and spending time with them. He was truly a wonderful father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughter, Raquel Olson, son, Jed (Laura) Olson, seven grandchildren, Jaden, Skyler, Austin, Dakota, Tajia, Willow, and Blajyn, and four great-grandsons, Ryder, Axton, Preacher, and Morgan. He is also survived by his siblings, sister, Diane Esplin, two brothers, Dean and Richard Olson, and many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father and mother. As well as his two siblings Enid and Eldon. 

The impact left behind by this remarkable man will be felt for generations through those who knew him best: family members who carry forward memories filled with laughter shared around dinner tables or adventures taken together under distant skies will cherish these memories forever. 

Alan leaves behind an indelible mark on all those fortunate enough to have known him—an enduring legacy built upon love, integrity, compassion, and unwavering loyalty.

May we find solace knowing that our lives were enriched by having known such an extraordinary soul whose memory will forever live within us. Rest peacefully now dad (Captain) Olson; your wings may be still, but your spirit soars eternally among us all.

A viewing will be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm, a viewing will be held before the service on Monday, January 22, 2024, from 9:30 - 10:30 am, followed by funeral proceedings at 11:00 am, all at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah 

Friends and family that are unable to attend the services in person are welcome to view them virtually by clicking the link below:

Video on Demand

We would like to offer much gratitude to his grandchildren who helped during these last difficult days in providing care day and night, and a huge thanks to Suntree Hospice for their love and dedicated service to our dad. Specifically, we would like to thank Lacie, Tristian, Amanda & Christie. We are truly humbled.

Arrangements are made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 S. Bluff St., St. George, Utah, (435) 673-2454.

Friends and family are invited to sign Alan’s online guest book at www.spilsburymortuary.com