Obituary of Bradley Robert Olson

Bradley Robert Olson was born on July 2, 1977 in Monroe, Michigan. He was one of three children born from the union of Charles Olson and Gail (Vandendriesche) Olson. Bradley attended Gibraltar Schools and graduated from Oscar A. Carlson High School with the Class of 1995. Bradley was a hard worker and he loved to work. He led by example and earned the respect of fellow co-workers with his strong work ethic. He had been a long-time employee of the Max and Erma Restaurants working his way into management. He served as the Manager of the Perrysburg location, was later promoted to General Manager of the Maumee Store, and then transferred to Lansing in May of 2015 to perform the same duties. Bradley was fun loving and the life of the party. Always the gentleman, Bradley was well mannered and treated everyone fairly. He had an infectious smile and a quirky personality. It was common for Brad to make friends wherever he went, and these friends were kept close through the years. He loved nothing more than to spend quality time with his family; especially his mother, always treating her like a princess. Brad lived life to the fullest, he enjoyed traveling and vacationed on several cruises with his parents over the years. He had a special fashion sense that drove his hobby of collecting clothing and often guided others in what to wear. Bradley R. Olson, age 39, of Haslett, Michigan (formerly of Sylvania, Ohio) passed away at home unexpectedly on Friday, December 16, 2016. In addition to his grandparents, his passing was preceded by a close aunt: Jeannine “GiGi” Vandendriesche. To cherish his memory, Bradley leaves his parents: Charles and Gail Olson of Monroe; two brothers: Daryle Olson of Dearborn Heights and Randall Olson of Ferndale, Michigan; many aunts, uncles and cousins; longtime friends Kristie, Jocelyn and former roommate Aaron; and many other friends made along the way. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe, 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Gathering in Remembrance of Brad will be held on January 21, 2017 from 3:00pm until 8:00pm at the Rockwood Community Center; 32001 Fort Street Rockwood, Michigan 48173 (734)379-5600. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Humane Society of Monroe County. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.