Eli Olsen
Eli Olsen was born in Petoskey, Mich., to Eli and Celia Olsen. He was one of nine children.
Eli graduated high school in Michigan and attended trade schools. Eli was a jack of all trades. He had been an auto mechanic for most of his life but excelled in many skills. He owned his own businesses in mechanics and upholstery.
Eli ”retired” but continued working at numerous hardware stores where he was known as the ”go-to expert.” In his next ”retirement,” Eli was a bus driver for South Lane Wheels in Cottage Grove.
He loved his family, the outdoors and staying busy. He knew a little about everything, and never passed up an opportunity to assist, help or rescue others in their projects or quests.
Eli loved to read and became a whiz in U.S. history, a master at carpentry and an ace at cards.
He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Audrey Olsen; four children, Kris (Ted) Wiedman, Kirk, Kim and Thomas Olsen; sisters, Fran Spitler and Virginia Smith; one brother, Cleo Olsen; and numerous grandchildren. He is preceded in death by daughter, Kathy (Jerry) Cowan.
He will be missed forever.
Arrangements entrusted to Musgrove Family Mortuary. Sign the guestbook at musgroves.com
