Matt Olson
Matt Olson, a beloved husband, devoted father, cherished son, and treasured member of the Thief River Falls community, passed away peacefully on April 13, 2026, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, ND, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 12, 1988, in Thief River Falls, MN, Matt’s life was a vibrant tapestry of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment to those he held dear.
A proud native of Thief River Falls, Matt’s upbringing was deeply rooted in faith and community. He was baptized and confirmed at Trinity Lutheran Church, the same sacred place where he would later unite in marriage to his best friend and soulmate, Kasey Lynn Dahlen, on November 26, 2011. Their union blossomed into a joyful family with the arrival of two wonderful, energetic, and hardworking sons, Brooks and Crosby, who were the center of Matt’s world.
Matt’s educational journey was marked by diligence and purpose. From Challenger Elementary to Franklin Middle and graduating from Lincoln High School’s class of 2007, he laid the foundation for a life of meaning and service. Pursuing higher education at Ridgewater College in Willmar, MN, he earned a degree in Insurance Adjusting. This pursuit led him back home where, under the guidance of his father Bill, he served his internship and eventually joined Olson Claims as an Insurance Adjuster in 2009. In 2025, Matt took the reins of the family business following his father’s retirement, a milestone that brought immense pride to both father and son.
Matt was a man of many passions that spoke to his spirit and character. His love for the outdoors was evident in the countless hours spent golfing and hunting with friends and his boys. Time at the hunting shack was a treasure trove of memories, filled with projects and nurturing food plots. Matt and his Dad, with the help of many family and friends, built the hunting shack near Fourtown. Hockey was more than a pastime; it was a legacy. For over a decade, Matt dedicated countless hours coaching various levels of the Thief River Falls Hockey Association. At the time of his passing, he was the proud coach of his son’s Pee Wee A hockey team. A member of the Fourtown Sportsman’s Club and active on the TRFAHA Board, Matt’s enthusiasm and leadership touched many lives. Matt enjoyed spending time and working at the Dahlen Farm.
Those close to Matt fondly remember his wit and sarcasm, his kind heart, and his ever-loyal nature. Though not one to be serious all the time, he worked hard and would go to great lengths for anyone in need. His proudest accomplishments, he often shared, were marrying Kasey and becoming the proud father to Brooks and Crosby—his family, his greatest joy and achievement.
Matt’s loving survivors include his devoted wife of 14 years, Kasey, and their sons Brooks and Crosby of Thief River Falls; his parents Bill and Julie Olson of Tenstrike, MN, who nurtured his spirit from childhood; his sister Katie (Billy) Grogg and their children Ben and Emmy of Minneapolis, MN; his grandfather Floyd Anderson of Bemidji, MN. His in-laws Kelly and Brenda Dahlen, sister-in-law Kristin (Paul) Vigen and brother-in-law Cody (Andrea) Halvorson, along with their children Ava, Julia, and Josie, all of Goodridge, MN. Matt’s life was further enriched by many other relatives and friends whose lives he touched deeply.
He joins in eternal rest his grandparents Clarence and Clara Olson and LaVonne Anderson, as well as brother-in-law Cole Dahlen, and many aunts, uncles, relatives, and friends who preceded him in death.
The community will gather to honor Matt’s life and legacy at Zion Lutheran Church, 505 Main Avenue North, Thief River Falls, MN. Visitation will be held on April 19, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a prayer service at 6:30 p.m. On April 20, visitation continues from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with the funeral service commencing at 2:00 p.m.
Matt Olson’s life was a testament to the power of love, dedication, and heartfelt commitment. His warmth, humor, and strength will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Though he has departed from this world, his legacy endures through his family, his friendships, and the countless lives he touched with his generous spirit. May we all find comfort in the memory of Matt’s bright spirit and the indelible mark he left on our community and hearts.
While flowers are beautiful, please consider a donation to Thief River Falls Hockey Association.
