BOZEMAN — Major Dennis Rivenes Olson departed this world on October 20th, 2020. His love of family, friends, our country, and a desire to make the world a better place was the focus of his daily life.
In Bozeman Montana on August 9, 1984 Dennis M. and Vicki Olson were blessed with the miracle of their only son, Dennis, who was affectionately nicknamed “Denny.”
In 1988, the Olson family moved to Santa Clarita, California where Denny grew up developing a love for soccer and an undeniable urge to serve his country. Dennis graduated from Saugus High School in 2002 and immediately followed his dream by joining the US Air Force Academy. He graduated in 2006 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Science. He later earned his Master of Science in Systems Engineering Management from the Naval Postgraduate School in 2016. During his career as an Air Force Officer, he served in multiple commands including managing programs at the Space and Missiles Systems Center, the National Reconnaissance Office, and the Defense Information Systems Agency; as well as a deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as a Defense Contract Management Agency Government Product Technical Representative. Dennis most recently applied for and was one of 20% of all applicants elected to be part of the initial cadre for the United States Space Force.
He was a decorated officer who received various medals, citations, and campaign ribbons including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and more.
On October 5, 2012 Denny made Megan Buehler his wife. Shortly after, this California couple headed to the East Coast for work and to start a new chapter in their lives.
Denny lived a life that touched everyone. He made personal connections important. Even if you met him on the street, he would make you feel like family. Although he traveled and lived around the world, he never felt distant. When you heard his voice or saw his grin after his absence it would always bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. He would greet you with a tight and true hug and then continue to pick up right where you left off. When hanging out with Denny, he would always put himself second and make sure you were accommodated for and having fun.
Everyone was always smiling and laughing when he was around. He would often stress the importance of experience in life and always relished living in the moment with his friends and family. Whether he was guiding you through levels of Nintendo or giving you sound advice during life’s challenging moments, he was always there and he was always loving. His mischievous side made him exciting and entertaining. His brilliance made him a scholar and an excellent conversationalist. His military service made him a protector and a hero. His heart made him pure as gold. We are blessed, and so very thankful to have experienced life with Denny. Until we meet again…
He will be greatly missed by his mother, Vicki and father, Dennis M., his wife, Megan and many aunts & uncles, cousins, friends and colleagues.
To all of our friends and loved ones, we hope you know how much Denny cared for you and how much he would want you to treasure each and every moment of your life. Denny is with God now, gathered in his arms and those of his beloved, grandparents and fallen comrades.
Thank you to the United States Air Force and especially Major Jeffery Kukuruda and Major Purvi Desai for escorting Denny home to Montana where he always wanted, one day, to remain.
Graveside Services with Military Honors will be held at the Sunset Hills Cemetery. The service will be available via webcast at: https://youtu.be/45XQ4rXAfZo
Because of Denny’s passion for serving his country and the mission, his family and friends are carrying on his legacy by requesting that in lieu of flowers, please make a gift to the Wounded Warrior Project or a tribute to Major Dennis Olson to the Knights of Heroes.
Wounded Warrior Project
https://communityfundraising.woundedwarriorproject.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.personalCampaign&participantID=3239&fbclid=IwAR0_qhlk-k4c4QuDuzXNYoqKbkhiCdUpE
GrUa9hAcOmBHl_0yG6bUNq6ma8
Knights of Heroes
http://knightsofheroes.org/home/donate-now?fbclid=IwAR2JMhEAaWamk0_Emhm1SWf8A
mO5_M2SkAjiBlGfI4_OCZFy8-UW7-oDZDI
Stars and Stripes
The Stars and Stripes, they flew forever always in his heart.
He was loyal to his nation and bravely did his part.
Always thinking of his brother ever in his mind.
He stood for love of country and most of all mankind.
Now gazing down with his Master through a light and heavenly cloud,
He’s still looking out for us of whom he is so proud.
