Vernon O Olafson

Vernon O. Olafson passed away February, 24 2026, at LifeCare Manor in Roseau, MN at the age of 86.  A memorial service for Vernon will be held at Helgeson Funeral Home of Roseau, MN on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 4PM with a visitation one hour prior to services at the Funeral Home.

Vernon Olafson was born on December 30, 1939, in Roseau, Minnesota, to Olaf and Erma (Karlson) Olafson. He was the youngest of six children. Vernon grew up working on the family farm and attended school in the area.

On January 12, 1960, Vernon married Nancy Haaby. Together they had one daughter, Vicky. The couple lived for a short time in Chicago and also in Biwabik, Minnesota, before eventually moving back to Roseau. After returning, Vernon purchased a trailer home and lived on his parents’ farm. He worked for a short time at Polaris before beginning his own farming operation where he raised beef cattle and harvested sugar beets when the farming season allowed.

Vernon enjoyed spending time outdoors and with friends. He and his family had a trailer at Rocky Point where they enjoyed ice fishing and socializing. He also loved deer hunting, snowmobiling, and taking rides in the Ranger. Vernon was known by the nickname and CB handle “Peter Rabbit.”

Vernon is survived by his daughter, Vicky Olson; his grandchildren, Christopher (Jennifer) Olson of Warroad and Arianna (Ryan) Thiele of Texas; and his great-grandchildren, Elsie Belle, William, Conner, Ruby, and Cecilia.  One sister, Mardell Falk, and a brother-in-law, Vernon (Martha) Haaby. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins

He was preceded in death by his parents, Olaf and Erma Olafson; his sister, Betty Ann Landin; his brothers, Conrad, Curtis, and Gordon Olafson; his son-in-law, Rodney Olson; his former wife, Nancy Olafson, and several nephews.

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