Michael “Mike” Paul Olson, aged 60, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on the evening of Oct. 1, 2016 in Moorpark, Calif.
Mike was born in Los Angeles on June 30, 1956, and raised by his adoptive parents, Eugene and Rita Olson. Mike graduated from Cypress High School in 1975 and, while attending Cypress College, was awarded an art scholarship in recognition of his talent as a gifted ceramicist.
Mike became a production potter, opening his own studio in Huntington Beach. He went on to become a successful entrepreneur, involved with many companies throughout his life.
One of his most successful business ventures was in the tile industry where he sold tile to Lowe’s, ran installation crews, had a tile mural painting company and created his own tile designs.
The source of Mike’s greatest joy was his friendships and memories formed through his passions for pottery, poker, paddle boarding, living in Malibu and traveling to Belize.
“His brilliant sense of humor made everyone who knew him feel connected and happy,” a loved one said. “Mike was a generous, vivacious man, spreading joy wherever he went. His presence will be missed by all who knew him and loved him.”
Mike is survived by his wife Cynthia Felman-Olson, his step-daughters Madison and Avery Felman, his brother Gary Olson, Gary’s wife Crystal, their sons Matthew and Michael, his sister Kathy Charlsworth, her husband Gary, and their daughters Jackie, Jenny, Jillian, and Julia, and by other family members and friends. Mike considered Cyndi’s family his own.
“He adored them and they loved him dearly,” a loved one shared.
Mike’s celebration of life will be a private event.
Friends of Mike who would like to be included in the celebration are asked to please send contact information and any photos you may have of Mike to mikeolsonmemorial@gmail.com.
Mike’s family gives thanks to Shelley and Landon Worthington for opening their home and their loving care for the last four months of Mike’s life.
Memorial donations in Mike’s honor may be sent to: Access TLC Hospice Foundation accesstlcfoundation.org, 805.222.4673