Kenneth W. Olson, Jr., 66, of Sioux Falls, SD, passed away Monday, November 23, 2020, at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

A private graveside service for the immediate family will take place at the Greenlawn Cemetery in Redfield, SD. Out of health and safety concerns, no visitation or public memorial will take place at this time. A public memorial service in celebration of Kenneth’s life will occur at a later date.   Hyke Funeral Home of Redfield has been entrusted with arrangements.  (www.hykefuneralhome.com)

Kenneth Wayne Olson, Jr. was born January 27, 1954, in Aberdeen, SD as the eldest child to Kenneth, Sr. and Shirley (Ames) Olson. He grew up on the family farm near Turton, SD with his sister, Kristi Olson, and graduated from Northwestern High School. He attended SDSU in Brookings, SD and earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture, upon which he returned home to the farm. This is where Kenny would spend nearly forty years cultivating his passion, planting the fields during the spring, and harvesting the crops in the fall.

Outside of his love of farming, Kenny was lucky to enjoy many other outdoor pursuits, including hunting trips with childhood friends, weekend construction projects, and spending time with family at the lake. He was a member of the Brentford Masonic Lodge and the Brentford Volunteer Fire Department. He also served terms on the Board of Directors at the Farmers State Bank of Turton and at North Central Farmers Elevator. He always looked forward each week to his Thursday night bowling league in Redfield.

More than anything, Kenny loved being a dad to his two children, Megan and Aaron, playing the roles of adoring father, tough teacher, and proud papa unconditionally. They are so blessed to have had him to help guide their lives. His daughter-in-law, Julie, and two grandchildren, Luke and Libby, cherish the all-too-brief time that they were able to spend with Grandpa. He will be missed dearly and loved eternally.

Kenny is survived by his son Aaron (Julie) Olson of Phoenixville, PA; two grandchildren: Luke and Libby Olson of Phoenixville; his sister Kristi Olson of Sioux Falls; and niece Sophia (Tanner) Vining of Brandon, SD. He is also survived by many special friends and extended family relationships, both near and far, having been in passing or lifelong, built during all phases of his life.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Megan, and his parents Kenneth, Sr. and Shirley.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to the Brentford Community Foundation or the Northwestern Community Foundation.