Gary Julien Olson, a loving father, proud grandfather, dedicated friend, talented instructor, and beloved coworker, passed away on August 20, 2025, after a courageous battle with leukemia. He was born in Turlock, California, on August 26, 1939, and remained connected to the town throughout his life, always returning to the place he called home.
A life member of the PGA, Gary was a passionate and gifted golf professional. He played on the PGA tour from 1962 to 1964 and competed in the U.S. Open in 1964. He once played against Jack Nicklaus in a junior championship, after which he was famously quoted as saying, “He is going to be the best player in the world.” A true teacher, he taught hundreds of kids and adults the game he so loved. His dedication to the sport was surpassed only by his passion for helping others, and he believed deeply in the positive impact of golf on young people.
Gary received his B.A. from Fresno State and his MBA from CSU Stanislaus, where he also taught golf theory and accounting. A sharp accountant, he dedicated over 30 years to preparing taxes for H. & R. Block. He also had a passion for aviation, holding a private commercial aviation license, and for coin collecting. He loved life’s simple pleasures, often enjoying a hearty steak, a favorite meal he savored everywhere and often.
To those who knew him, Gary was a source of distinctive, heart-felt, genuine, and joyful laughter. He appreciated the boundless beauty that God created, from the awe-inspiring galaxy to the dry hot deserts, the green grassy links, and the magnificent mountains. He was a lifelong learner who cherished time with family and friends above all else, and his commitment to staying connected with those he loved was admired by many.
Gary is survived by his sister Suzanne Olson, his son Gregory Olson, his daughter Jennifer Swanson and her husband Tor Swanson, and his grandchildren Ty Swanson, Zachary Swanson, and Maisy Swanson.
A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on September 21, 2025, at the First United Methodist Church in Turlock.
