Richard Lawrence Olson

Ayer: Richard Lawrence Olson, 93, of Ayer and former longtime resident of Westford, passed away suddenly at his home on June 13th, 2023.

Richard was born on August 17th, 1929, and was raised in Somerville, one of five children born to Guy and Ethel (Briggs) Olson. He is a veteran of the Korean Conflict and spent 37 years employed by Raytheon, before retiring in 1991.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 66 years, Helen “Trudy” (Moore) Olson; four children, Gary Olson of Falcon, Co., Joanne (David) Smith of Littleton, James Olson of Westford, and Cindy (Vincent) Muscolino of Braintree; eight grandchildren, Jon (Candice) Olson, Stephanie (Andy) Welch, Greg Bulpett, Richard (Allison) Troupe, Christina Troupe, Michael & Christopher Smith, & Alexis Muscolino; and five great-grandchildren, Prezlie, Ruthie, Johanna, Mackenzie & Rory. Richard was the brother of the late Shirley Poore and Robert Olson and is survived by his brother Earle Olson, sister Jean Williamson, and many nieces and nephews.

Richard was an avid golfer and once an active member of the Nabnasset Lake Country Club in Westford, and continued to play for years at his winter residence in Fort Pierce, Florida. He was a dedicated Boston sports fan and proudly wore his championship attire. In addition to spending countless summer vacations in Wells Beach Maine with his extended family, Richard loved traveling across the country in his 29-foot Pace Arrow RV with his wife Trudy by his side. He adored spending time with his children and grandchildren and proudly took his position tending to the backyard barbecue at all events with family and friends.

Richard's Celebration of Life service will be held on Thursday, June 22, 2023, at 3:00 pm at the First Parish Church of Groton, 3 Powderhouse Road, Groton. Relatives and friends are welcome. 

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in his name to the American Heart Association. (www.heart.org)