Reverend Allan Paul Olson, age 82, of Prior Lake, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 9, 2025 at Hennepin County Medical Center following a recent fall.
A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at 11 a.m., with a gathering one hour prior, all at Ballard-Sunder Funeral & Cremation, 4565 Pleasant Street, Prior Lake.
He is survived by his wife, Sheila; son, Eric; two sisters, Margaret Shipp and Barbara (John) Elam; and two cousins, Betheny (Russ) Wyandt and Matt (Steph) Shipp.
Rev. Olson was a beloved pastor for over 56 years who faithfully served Prior Lake and leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and community leadership that touched generations.
He was born on Nov. 12, 1942, grew up in Litchfield and went to Theological Seminary in Kansas, Mo. The first church he served was the United Methodist Church in Arlington, Minn.
The second church served by Rev. Olson was Holy Trinity United Methodist Church, beginning in 1972. He was especially proud of how the church grew and had two Sunday services. One service each summer was held at the Yacht Club Island where families could come in their boats to attend services.
He later formed the Minnesota Valley Community Church, a non-denominational church. Services for the congregation started out in the bank basement of Wells Fargo Bank and later Prior Lake State Bank until a new church was built. He later formed Christ Community Church and served there until his recent illness.
Rev. Olson loved working with the youth group in church and took them on a trip to Europe. He had a heart for young people, often going above and beyond to connect with the youth. He led multiple backpacking trips to Europe, staying in hostels and exposing students to new cultures and life experiences. He also organized camping trips and even preached on the island in Prior Lake to inspire and grow the congregation.
In addition to his pastoral duties, Rev. Olson found another way to serve the community—by driving a school bus for 10 years.
His dedication to both his church and his town was unmatched, and his impact was felt far beyond Sunday mornings. His son Eric said his father’s commitment to faith, service, and people will be remembered by the many whose lives he touched. His decades of ministry have left a deep and lasting imprint on Prior Lake, one that will be cherished for years to come.