Rex Olson

Rex Olson, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the age of 71. He was a kind and genuine person who treated others like family and would do anything for anybody.

Rex was born in Madison, Wisconsin, in 1953, to Oliver and Hazel Olson. The youngest of nine children, Rex thrived around people and enjoyed telling stories and jokes. He graduated from East High School and then attended culinary school at Madison College. Rex worked for a time as a cook at CityView Nursing Home, where they called him “cookie,” before pursuing employment with the Madison Metropolitan School District. He retired from MMSD as a supervisor after 36 years. Rex was proud to represent fellow employees for years as treasurer for his union, AFSCME Wisconsin Local 60.

Rex started dating Deb in 1974 and the two wed in 1979. Through sweat and savvy, they created a beautiful home where they raised their two children and lived together for 46 years. The couple enjoyed many day trips around Wisconsin after retirement.

In addition to being able to fix almost anything around the house, Rex became a real estate broker in his 30s. He helped many of his family members and friends, eventually joking that he never showed so many houses in his life as he did for his children. He retired from real estate shortly after that.

Rex relished a good deal, especially with cars. He also loved boating and water skiing. Rex had a deep appreciation for music and loved many genres. In the kitchen, Rex was famous for his roast beef sandwiches, lasagna, egg sandwiches, and chocolate malts that he learned to make as a teenager working at the “Hungry, Hungry” root beer stand.

Rex is predeceased by his parents, brother, Don, and sister-in-law, Lee. He is survived by his wife, Debra; children, Sarah (Phil) and Josh; grandchildren, Oliver, Sophie, and Nora; siblings, Olie, Dick (Karla), Ginny (Dave), Phil (Mary Jo), Clark (Judy), Patty (Bob), Cathy (Charlie); dozens of nieces, nephews, and cousins; brother-in-law, Greg (Julie); and fond relatives, Aunt Catherine, Joice, Xinan, Karen, Gary, Donna, Elora, and Brandon.

The family extends their gratitude to the staff at Agrace Hospice, Dove Healthcare-Lodi and the local EMS for their expertise and kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the East Side Club, 3735 Monona Drive, in Madison. The visitation will begin at 11 a.m., service at noon, with a light luncheon following the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations toward a memorial park bench in Rex’s honor.