Dan Lee Olson of Maple Valley passed away Friday, February 20, 2009 in Renton, Wash. He was 48.

He was born March 17, 1960 in Hettinger, N.D. to Carl H. and Joyce E. Olson. After the untimely death of his mother the family moved to Maple Valley where he was raised by his father and stepmother Dorothy. He attended the Tahoma School District.

Throughout his life he expanded his education through many life experiences. He worked raising animals on the family farm and as a warehouseman in several industries.

He enjoyed driving, camping, hiking, fishing, caring for animals and going for walks with his dog. He enjoyed babysitting his nieces and nephews and he cared for his aging parents until their death. Despite his shyness, Dan was a free spirit who loved socializing with his family and friends. He will be remembered as a loyal friend who was always there for someone in need.

He is survived by his brothers, Mark and John Olson of Maple Valley, half brother Patrick Olson of Hot Springs, S.D., half sister Georgine Gall of Minneapolis, Minn., stepbrother Dennis West and stepsister Sharon Devaney of Enumclaw and sixteen nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister Mary, stepmother Dorothy and his father Carl.

A graveside memorial is scheduled for 1 p.m., March 7 at the Hobart-Maple Valley Cemetery in Hobart. A potluck remembrance gathering will follow at the home of Mark and Karen Olson.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests remembrances to Maple Valley Food Bank.

Friends are invited to view photos, get directions to the service and share memories in the family’s online guest book at www.flintofts.com.

Arrangements were made by Flintoft’s Funeral Home and Crematory in Issaquah.