James Forest Olson

James Forest Olson, 93, left this life on August 26, 2024 in North Ogden, Utah, surrounded by his family.

He was born June 8, 1931 in Salt Lake City, Utah along with a twin brother. He was the son of Forest LeRoy and Florence Laura (Maxwell) Young. Their birth made national news because James was born with two teeth and his brother had one. 

After his parents divorced, he and his brother lived with their grandparents. His grandfather was the superintendent of the train that transported tourists to Saltair, which allowed James to spend many happy hours playing and exploring the Saltair grounds.

After graduating from Ogden High School, he served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War. When he returned from his service, he went to the University of Utah to study mechanical engineering.

While attending the University, he met a beautiful young woman, Fern Sharp. Three months later they were married in Preston, Idaho on August 30, 1957. They were later sealed with their three children in the Salt Lake Temple in 1964.

James served in the Sunday School Presidency, as a High Counselor, and as a stake missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He loved sharing the gospel with anyone who would listen and was always found actively serving those in need.

In the year 2000, he and his wife served a mission to South Africa where they worked in the Distribution Center in Johannesburg. He loved this time of service and loved the people of South Africa, especially the people of Soweto.

James enjoyed spending time outdoors. He enjoyed hiking and camping in the mountains. His greatest talent was his artwork. 

James is survived by his son, Richard James Olson, daughters, Lucinda (Brian) Hewitt, Diane (Jim Olsen) Olson, brother, Dave Olson, 14 grandchildren, 28 great grandchildren, and two great-great granddaughters.

James was preceded in death by his parents, stepfather, Richard Lusty Olson, his wife Fern, his twin brother, Jack Edward Olson, and granddaughter, Jessica (Hurst) Rumel.

His family would like to express their appreciation to his hospice nurse, Taylor, and to Mandy and MacKenna, our dream team at The Lodge of North Ogden.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 2340 North Fruitland Drive, North Ogden, Utah, with a visitation from 10:15-10:45 a.m. Graveside will be about 3:00 p.m. on the same day at the Preston Cemetery, Preston, Idaho, where he will be laid to rest next to his wife. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at webbmortuary.com