Final Salute

MADISON – Morgan Olson, a lifelong Madison resident, died peacefully on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at the Veteran’s Hospital, after a short but brave battle with lung cancer. He was 81.

A lover of the natural world, Morgan rarely went a day without an outdoor excursion in his van. In the warmer months, he never traveled without his bike and swimsuit, and always made time for a dip. He had a particular fondness for Devil’s Lake. In the winter, you could reliably find Morgan skating at Vilas Park hockey rink, and when milder temperatures returned, he put down his stick and picked up a bat in one of Madison’s softball leagues. Morgan’s love for the outdoors sprouted from a childhood filled with hunting, fishing, camping and many picnics orchestrated by his parents, Cal and Gladys for their five kids. One of his favorite pastimes was archery and for 71 years, he enjoyed the camaraderie of membership with the Blackhawk Bowhunters Archery Club.

As an accomplished sheet metal worker, he felt lucky to have a career he enjoyed. He would point out the many buildings he worked on, including both the old and new UW Hospital. He applied his skills in the US Naval Mobile Construction Battalion (“Seabees”), serving in Vietnam constructing buildings and repairing bridges as a Steel Worker, Petty Officer-Second Class and receiving the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, National Defense Service Medal and Navy Commendation Ribbon, before being honorably discharged. Later, he traveled the world with only a gym bag and his wits.

Morgan’s siblings – Marilyn (Jack), Howard, Nancy (Craig) and Kathy (Pat) – along with too many nephews, nieces, cousins and lifelong friends to list – will all think of him when out in the natural landscapes that Morgan loved.

A visitation will be held at GUNDERSON FUNERAL HOME, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, followed by a service and luncheon at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Morgan’s honor may be made to Henry Vilas Zoo at www.henryvilaszoo.gov.