Melvin H. (aka Travis) Olson, Jr, age 73, Lena, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes, on September 8, 2026, at home. Melvin was born on November 18, 1952, in Oconto Falls to Melvin, Sr and MaryAnn (Shallow) Olson. He was a graduate of Oconto High School, Class of 1971. After high school he joined the Merchant Marine sailing the Great Lakes on the SS Harry Coulby. He later worked for Darwin Electric for many years, and most recently he worked as a consultant for the construction industry in the Green Bay Area. In the home building industry, he was a legend. He got things done. He loved his work and never retired completely.
One of Melvin’s favorite sayings was “I am the Best”! It was not arrogance. It was fun. But he was the best. Melvin was a friend to everyone, without an enemy. He loved animals and had many special pets over the years. His favorite was his dog, Murphy. He was also an avid sports fan.
Melvin will be sadly missed by his mother MaryAnn, siblings: Patricia (Thomas) Smith, Lynn (Richard Fay) Imig, Debbi (Dave) Carey, Marci (Mark) Wenck, Kenneth (Stephanie) Olson, Randy (Tracy Laws) Olson, as well as many nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. He is also sadly missed by many colleagues, including Darrell LaCrosse, Keith Garot, and Richard Tillman who could find nothing bad to say about Melvin.
He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Olson, Sr.
There will be a Celebration of Life gathering on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, from 3:00 to 6:00 PM at Rhodes-Charapata Funeral Home, 121 Chicago Street in Oconto. For more information and to express condolences, please visit www.rhodescharapata.com.
I lieu of flowers a memorial fund will be established. All donations will be used to support local animal rescue.
