BARRE/SPENCER - Robert A. Olson, Jr. passed away on Friday, July 7, 2023, at Athol Hospital after taking ill at home. He was 74. Born July 8, 1948, and raised in Worcester, Bob was the son of the late Robert A. and Phyllis (Ackley) Olson and lived 18 years in Spencer before moving to Barre in 2013.
He leaves his beloved wife of 56 years, Theresa J. (Pinto) Olson; son, Robert A. Olson, III; daughter, Tina M. Tefft and her husband Scott of Sterling; a brother, Keith Olson of Tamarac, FL; two grandchildren, Lyndzey Tefft and her fiancé, Michael Light and MacKenzie Tefft; two great-grandchildren, Christian and Gianna Munoz; nephews and nieces; several in-laws and many close friends. Besides his parents, Bob is predeceased by a granddaughter, Ashli Tefft, a brother, Bruce Olson and a sister, Christine Huchowski.
Bob graduated from Commerce High School in Worcester and attended RAO Electronics School in Boston. After graduating from school, Bob worked at IBM for several years before switching and embarking on a 50-year career in carpentry and general contracting.
In his spare time, Bob enjoyed making model cars, airplanes, and ships. He also participated for over 30 years in local reenactments with the North East Mountain Men. This included reenactments during the 1825-1840 period. He was a 32 Degree Mason and was a member of the Monticute Lodge of Masons.
Bob's biggest joy in life was spending time with his family which included vacationing in Wells, Ogunquit and Old Orchard Beach, all in Maine. He will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Bob's family from 2 to 4 pm on Friday, July 14, at Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden, followed by a funeral service at 4 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Children's Hospital, 51 Blossom St., Boston, MA 02114. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit the "Tribute Wall" on this page.