Walfred "Wally" Olson, 83, of Pinehurst, passed away peacefully Saturday, March 28, 2009, after suffering a stroke while on a cruise. He will be deeply missed by his family and countless friends.

Wally was born in Bronxville, N.Y., Nov. 26, 1925, the son of late Thage and Lillian Olson. Wally proudly served his country during World War II.

Wally lived in Sidney, N.Y., and was employed for many years by Whitaker & Sons. Wally retired from At-A-Glance (MeadWestvaco) in 1988. In 1989 he relocated to North Carolina.

Wally is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sally O'Hara Olson; son, Steve and Thelma Olson, Wilmington, John and Leona Olson, Sidney, N.Y.; stepsons, Jim and Lisa Beers, Raleigh, Tom and Tammi Beers, Pinehurst, Rusty and Bobbi Jo Beers, Bethel, Conn; brother, Carl and Barbara Olson, Afton, N.Y.; 10 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his first wife, Luella Doyle Olson, in 1982.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 1, at the Community Presbyterian Church in Pinehurst.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to Foundation of FirstHealth Hospice, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374

Arrangements by C.H. Landers Funeral Chapel, 21 Main St., Sidney, N.Y.