John E. Olsen Jr., aka Johnny, Hugo John, or Old Man died from cancer at his home on Half Moon Lake in WI, December 24, 2024.

Born August 25, 1955, John was the oldest of fifteen, all half siblings to him. He grew up without his father but was able to have a close relationship with him in later years. He met most of his siblings in his 3rd and 5th decades. He was with his third, and most patient wife, Sydney for 32 years. He had two sons, Zeb and Harry and was preceded in death by Zeb. Zeb left him with three grandsons, that he adored: Keegan, Zeb Jr and Grayson. John leaves behind many friends, the number is staggering. He made friends everywhere he went no matter what he was doing. He had a memory for faces.

John was raised by his grandparents in Waukegan, Illinois but when his grandmother died, he moved to Amherst, WI where he went to high school. Amherst molded John more than anything. He was emancipated while still in high school, which might have helped his popularity. John always said that he learned to work from the farm families he got to know in the central WI area. He took that work ethic, founded two tree removal businesses and climbed trees until he was 62. John developed client relationships that lasted nearly 50 years. During his illness he received many kind cards and letters from clients. John retired from Hugo Tree, but never stopped cutting trees for friends. He was known for his honest opinions and approach to business. He treated everyone like family.

When not slaying trees, John was an avid motorcyclist, card player, golfer, boater, fisherman, gun sports (but no hunting) and all-around fun guy to have at a party. With a sharp wit and harmless charm, he was known for his jokes and storytelling at any party that he attended. He loved to turn trees he had cut into usable lumber, and his lake home is a testament to a lifetime of accumulating (and moving) boards and slabs.

In addition to his wife, son and grandsons, John leaves behind his one-eyed dog, Captain. The latest in a long line of rescue dogs he adopted. John also leaves behind close siblings, extended family, and many friends that have become family. He leaves a legacy of “if you love what you do then you will never work a day in your life”.

Memorials preferred to Northwoods Humane Society in Forest Lake, MN or Hugo Good NeighborsFood Shelf in Hugo, MN.

A celebration of life to have drinks and share stories Friday, January 10, 4-7pm at the Hugo American Legion (5383 140th St N, Hugo, MN 55038).

Last Update: Dec 31, 2024 12:57 pm CST