Anton Olson

Anton "Tony" Olson, age 88, born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, passed away Thursday, October 15, 2026.

Tony was the beloved husband of Dianne Collins Olson, with whom he shared 56 years of marriage. He was the loving father of Carl (Kasia) Olson and Christina (Brenden Williams) Olson, and the cherished grandfather of Michael Olson, Jacob Olson, Evie Williams and Max Williams. He was the dear brother of Judy Silence, Mary (Joe) Magro, Johanna (Richard Spears) Lewis and Debbie Olson.

A lifelong learner, Tony graduated from Fenger High School and earned a degree in Physics from Purdue University, later obtaining a master's degree and teaching Physics at Tuskegee University in Alabama. He went on to earn a master's in library science from Dominican University and began his career at the Chicago Public Library, where he met his wife, Dianne. He worked at the University of Illinois Science Library in Chicago for two years before joining the Northwestern Medical School Library as Head of Technical Services, a role he held for more than 40 years. He loved his work and made critical contributions to library database systems.

Tony and Dianne made their home in Oak Park in 1975. Together they loved to travel, visiting Europe, Africa and across the United States, and they shared a deep love of reading. Tony was heavily involved in the travel soccer club where his children played in Oak Park, serving as a coach, referee and organizer. He was a generous supporter of wildlife and conservation non-profit organizations and delighted in visits to the Brookfield Zoo, the Morton Arboretum and the many Chicago museums. A history buff and lifelong train enthusiast, Tony will be remembered for his devotion to family, his curiosity and his quiet, steady warmth. He will be deeply missed.

Services for Tony will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to:

Brookfield Zoo

or

Morton Arboretum