Thomas James Olson

Thomas James Olson, 66, was welcomed into the arms of his Lord and Savior on August 15, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM at The Mission Church, 12001 Ridgemont Dr. in Urbandale Iowa. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service, with a luncheon to follow.

Tom was born on April 10, 1959 in Dubuque, Iowa and was adopted into the loving family of Earl and Dona Jean (Brusnahan) Olson and sister Marianne in Marshalltown, Iowa. He graduated from Marshalltown High School in 1977 and went on to attend Iowa State University, then continued his education at Drake University.

In 1981, Tom met Kristy Johnson, the love of his life. They married in 1986 and lived in Waukee, until recently moving to Grimes.

Tom and his sister Marianne worked together in their landscaping business. Over the years, Tom continued working in the landscape industry, but it was at Sugar Creek Golf Course in Waukee where he found purpose, joy, and a sense of community.

His love for golf began early – at age 7 – when he first became a caddy and, in doing so, sparked a lifelong passion for Tom and his parents. That love for the outdoors never faded. Whether golfing, fishing or simply enjoying nature, Tom found peace and connection in the simple pleasures of life – especially when shared with his loving wife, Kristy.

Tom will be remembered for his one-of-a-kind sense of humor, his unwavering kindness, his loyalty, and his deep empathy for others – always standing up for the underdog. Tom’s relationship with his Savior, and peace because of that relationship, touched the lives of all those who knew him.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Kristy; his sister, Marianne Olson; mother-in-law, Ilene Johnson; brothers-in-law and sister-in-law Glen (Linda)Johnson, Bruce Johnson, Todd Johnson and Troy Johnson; and loving niece and nephews. Tom also leaves behind his cherished kitties, Oreo and Mittsie, who brought him great joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his father-in-law, Richard Johnson.

Kristy sends heartfelt thanks to the caregivers and staff at Urology Centers of Iowa, UnityPoint Hospice, Taylor House Hospice, and Kennybrook Village.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Taylor House Hospice, and condolences expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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