Rick Olson

Age 68 and a lifelong resident of Morris, Illinois, passed away on Wednesday, March 27, 2024. After a courageous battle with cancer, Rick was in peace at home, surrounded by family.

Rick's journey through life was marked by dedication, love, and selflessness.

Born October 27, 1955 in Morris, Richard Craig was a son of Marvin “Jake” and Elizabeth “Betty” (Clennon) Olson. A graduate of Morris Community High School with the Class of 1973, Rick was a talented athlete, where he excelled in baseball and football. In 1986, Rick united in marriage with Kay Kutches at Drakes Farm in Goose Lake, and together, they nurtured a beautiful family and created a home filled with love.

His career as a Chemical Operator began at Akzo Nobel and spanned over 35 years, until his retirement from Nouryon Chemical in October 2023. Rick was loved by his coworkers because of his dedication, strong work ethic and true interest in their lives. 

Rick's contribution to the community extended beyond his professional life. He served on the Morris Community High School Board of Education and he played an active role in the Morris Athletic Association. One of his greatest joys was coaching sports for many young athletes, including his own children.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Rick's family meant everything to him. He took great joy in attending his children's activities and sports events. He loved the Chicago Cubs and Green Bay Packers. However, Rick’s true fandom was with any team his children were apart of throughout their careers. Rick also enjoyed spending time outdoors and playing golf.
 
Those who knew Rick remember him as a selfless and kind-hearted individual, who always put others first. His memory lives on through the values of hard work, dedication to family, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.

He leaves behind a legacy filled with pride as a loving husband, devoted father and the best grandpa. 

Survivors include his wife, Kay; children: Andy Fillman of Mazon, Maggie (Jason Stoterau) Olson of Morris, Ben (Shannon) Olson of San Antonio, Texas and Jake (Emily) Olson of Houston, Texas; four grandchildren: Sophia Fillman, Finley Ader, Beckett Blaine and Emmett Olson; two brothers: Chuck Olson and Dave (Patti) Olson and one sister, Janelle (Barry) Aldrich, all of Morris; sister-in-law, Sue (Tom) Crawford of Coal City and brothers-in-law: Todd (Susan) Kutches of Everett, Washington and Joe (Kathy) Kutches of Morris, and numerous nieces and nephews, as well as friends.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents; brother, James Olson; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Jack and Marianne Kutches and brother-in-law, Jeff Kutches.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a celebration of Rick’s life at the Morris Country Club, 2615 W. US Route 6, in Morris on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Remarks and remembrances will be made at 5:00 p.m.

Rick will be laid to rest in Sample Cemetery in Morris, Illinois.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Rick’s memory to the Morris Community High School Education Foundation.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.ReevesFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Rick’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes and Crematory in Morris (815/942-2500)