Douglas John Olson MD 

Orono, MN - Dr. Douglas J. Olson, age 79, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2026.

Born January 8, 1947, Doug graduated from Osseo High School before attending the University of Minnesota and the University of Minnesota Medical School. He went on to become a radiation oncologist and, together with his colleague, founded Minneapolis Radiation Oncology. He was a physician who cared deeply about his patients and was proud of the career he built.

Drafted at 18, he served in Vietnam before returning home to begin college and medical school. He defied the odds more than once and had a remarkable ability to keep moving forward, no matter what life put in front of him.

He never stopped challenging himself and was always exploring a new hobby or interest. Most notably, he earned his pilot's license, and was multi-engine instrument certified. He took family and friends on many trips in his twin engine turboprop Piper Cheyenne, always a careful pilot who loved the freedom and adventure of flying.

He was an incredible downhill skier who taught his kids to ski and love the mountains of Colorado. Ski trips with friends were some of his favorite - from Europe to heli-skiing to his beloved Vail, where his friends called him the mountain manager. He knew the mountain perfectly and, most importantly, the best apres-ski.

A lifelong Minnesota Vikings fan, he approached every season with hope and excitement (and a little bit of cynicism). We will carry his love for the Vikings forward this season and all the rest, hoping that this will finally be our year.

He loved his family and friends fiercely. He could tell a story like no other, and was funny as hell. He was generous, witty, and usually right about everything. We will miss him tremendously.

He divided his time between Naples, Florida; Aspen, Colorado; and Orono, Minnesota. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bowers, MD; his children, Nicholas Olson, MD and his wife Ashley, Erica Podobinski and her husband Mark, Caryn Pleasants and her husband Steve; his grandchildren, Jack, James, Madelyn, Annika, and Mikaela; and his youngest sister, Darlene. He was preceded in death by his father Bernie, mother Jean; and his brothers Rick and Jerry.

He always had a dog by his side, and leaves behind his loyal companion, Gabe. He is surely being welcomed at the rainbow bridge by all of his dogs who went before him. They'll hear his voice and come running!

A special thank you to the staff at Ridgeview Medical Center and N.C. Little Hospice. You cared for our Dad and our family during some of our hardest moments, and we will always be grateful for your kindness, compassion, and care.

Please join us to share memories and stories, and raise a glass in Doug's honor.

A Celebration of Life

Wednesday, October 28, 2026

5:00-8:00 pm (stories and toasts 6-7pm)

The Lafayette Club

2800 Northview Road

Minnetonka Beach, MN 55361