Jim was born on October 22, 1944, in Elmhurst, Illinois, to Raymond Olson and Eileen M. Olson (Crotan). He was the youngest of three brothers, joining David and Thomas. Jim attended Immaculate Conception High School in Elmhurst, graduating in 1962, and went on to Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. During his time at Saint Mary’s, Jim formed lifelong friendships and met the love of his life, Christine Wroblewski.

Jim and Chris were married on May 30, 1969, in Wilmette, Illinois, and shared 56 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised two children, Stephen J. Olson and Nora K. Earnest (Olson), building a family that remained at the center of Jim’s life.

After graduating from Saint Mary’s University, Jim earned his law degree from DePaul University School of Law in 1969. He began his legal career at the Harrington Law Firm in Chicago, Illinois. In 1972, Jim and Chris moved to New Ulm, Minnesota, where Jim joined the Berens, Rodenberg & O’Connor Law Firm. There, he maintained private practice while also serving the public as Brown County Attorney from 1986 until his retirement in 2009.

As Brown County Attorney, Jim was known as a dedicated, capable, and principled public servant. His work ranged from minor criminal matters to complex murder trials, always handled with integrity and professionalism. In recognition of his outstanding service, Jim was honored as Minnesota Attorney of the Year in 2009.

Jim was deeply involved in the New Ulm community. He served in leadership roles for many civic organizations, including as president of the New Ulm Rotary Club, United Way, New Ulm Jaycees, and New Ulm Chamber of Commerce. He also gave his time to the Brown County Humane Society, the New Ulm Area Catholic School Board, and Saint Mary’s Parish Council. He especially enjoyed his meetings with the Socrates Club where friends discussed current world topics.

A lifelong lover of history, Jim was rarely without a book. His shelves held volumes spanning topics from the fall of the Roman Empire to Watergate, and he delighted in discussing his latest read with family and friends. Above all else, Jim cherished his family. He especially enjoyed family gatherings at the lake, which often included hiking, camping, and spirited games of Trivial Pursuit. Jim and Chris shared a love of travel, exploring many states and countries with friends and their children. Among his favorite journeys were trips to Ireland, where he toured the countryside and connected with relatives still living there.

Jim was also a devoted animal lover, particularly fond of dogs. In retirement, he could often be found walking the streets of New Ulm with his dog at his side. Jim will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp mind, deep love for his family, and the many friendships he formed throughout his life.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Eileen Olson; his daughter, Nora K. Earnest (Olson); his parents-in-law, Stephen and Regina Wroblewski; his sisters-in-law, Marilyn Olson and Sharon Olson; and his nephew, Timothy Olson.

He is survived by his loving wife, Christine R. Olson; his son, Stephen J. Olson (Nicole L. Olson); his son-in-law, J. Randal Earnest; his sister- and brother-in-law, Mary Jean Hinsman and Darrell Hinsman; his grandchildren, Alexander J. Olson, Emily R. Olson, and Eric G. Earnest; his brothers, David Olson and Thomas Olson; and his nieces and nephews, Tom Hinsman, Gretchen Hinsman, Mike Olson, Heather Braid (Mike Braid), and Kevin Olson.

A Mass in honor of Jim will be held at St Mary’s church in New Ulm, MN on Friday April 24, 2026, at 11 a.m. with visitation held at the same location starting at 10 a.m. Memorials may be made to a foundation started by his daughter Nora to assist family’s struggling with cancer: The Earnest Foundation c/o Advent Health Rocky Mountain Foundation, 2525 South Downing Street Denver, Co, 80210.

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