Terry Wayne Olson, 68, of Brookings, passed away on Thursday, June 4, while in the Black Hills, doing what he loved most — enjoying the outdoors.
A celebration of life will be held from 4 to 6 p.mm Thursday, June 11, 2026 at Rude’s Funeral Home, Brookings, SD.
Born on Nov. 1, 1957, to Cynthia and Delbert Olson, Terry was raised on the family farm near Badger, where he learned the values of hard work, dedication, and family that would guide him throughout his life. He attended Badger Country School and graduated from Arlington High School in 1976. Following high school, he attended Southeast Technical Institute, earning an Associate Degree in Diesel Mechanics in 1977.
After graduation, Terry returned to the family farm, where he worked alongside his family. On May 29, 1982, he married the love of his life, Lori Ellerbruch, at Badger Lutheran Church. Terry continued farming until 1986, when he decided to pursue a new calling. He enrolled at South Dakota State University, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Athletic Training in 1991.
Following graduation, Terry began his career at the Brookings Clinic before joining Brookings High School as an athletic trainer and history teacher. Through his dedication and leadership, he helped define and elevate the profession of athletic training throughout South Dakota. A proud member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Terry was recognized as Certified Athletic Trainer of the Year for 2008–2009. His passion for students and athletes was unmatched, and he devoted countless hours to helping young people succeed both on and off the field. The impact he made on generations of students, athletes, coaches, and colleagues will be felt for years to come.
Terry was a tender-hearted, happy man who rarely met a stranger and was known for his warm smile and welcoming spirit. His arms were always open, ready to offer a hug, a helping hand, or words of encouragement to anyone who needed them. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life and cherished every moment spent with family and friends.
He loved fishing, camping, and capturing life’s special moments through photography. Whether relaxing with his dogs, watching movies, or gathering in the garage for Monday Night Football, he treasured time spent with those he loved. He was known for his passion for cooking, often preparing far more food than necessary, especially for family gatherings on the patio around the grill. He enjoyed SDSU tailgates and was well known among family and friends for his famous “T.O.’s Chili.”
An avid motorcycle enthusiast, Terry loved riding his Harley and made several memorable trips to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. He took great pride in caring for his yard and creating a welcoming home for family and friends.
Above all, Terry cherished time spent with his grandchildren and family. Whether sharing a meal, cheering from the sidelines, sitting around a campfire, or gathering on the patio, he found his greatest happiness in being surrounded by those he loved. His kindness, generosity, unwavering support, and genuine love for others will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Terry’s legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared so freely with family, friends, students, and athletes. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Terry is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Lori Olson; his sister, Sue (Brian) Ivers; his children, Jacob (Amy) Olson, Sammy Adelmann, Willy (Jodi) Olson, and Michaela (Andrew) Martin; and his beloved grandchildren, August, Autumn, Aiden, Kale, Camden, Cody, Carter, and Sylvie. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cynthia and Delbert Olson.
“Those we love don’t go away; they walk beside us every day.”
“Life’s a bitch and then you die” – T.O.
Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rudesfuneralhome.com.
Leave a Reply