Steven Douglas Olson, born on December 4, 1963, in Omaha, Nebraska, passed away on June 18, 2019, at the age of 55 in Papillion, Nebraska. He grew up in Newman Grove, Nebraska, where he was baptized and confirmed at Zion Lutheran Church. In 1982, he graduated from Newman Grove High School. Following his graduation, Steven enlisted in the United States Army in September 1982, serving honorably as a helicopter crew chief, including a six-month deployment in Honduras.
After his discharge in 1985, he returned to Northwood, Iowa, where his family resided, and worked in various roles, including as a dispatcher for the Worth County Sheriff's Office.
Steven married Bonnie, and the couple spent several years together. His career later took him to Des Moines, Iowa, where he continued his work as a dispatcher for the city and served as a reserve police officer for local departments. In 2012, he relocated to Omaha, Nebraska, securing employment as a dispatcher and later as a security guard for the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Steven was known for his dedication to service, both to his country and his community. He had a passion for fishing, hunting, and riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. His commitment to helping others was evident in his professional and personal life, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Tragically, Steven's life was cut short in an incident that led to legal proceedings. His wife, Anne Valgora, was initially charged with first-degree murder in connection with his death. Prosecutors alleged that financial motives were involved, citing life insurance policies and financial allowances as potential factors. In July 2022, Valgora pleaded guilty to first-degree assault and tampering with evidence, with sentencing scheduled for October 31, 2022.
Steven is survived by his mother, Shirley Olson; his sister, Dianne Bailey, and her husband, Bob; nieces, Sarah Odom and Amy Odom; and a great-nephew, Guster Norman Wheeler. He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Olson; a niece, Carrissa; and an infant brother, Darwin. A funeral service was held on June 26, 2019, at First Lutheran Church in Northwood, Iowa, officiated by Rev. Judy Converse. Inurnment took place at Sunset Rest Cemetery beside his father, with military honors conducted by Our Buddies Memorial VFW Post #6779. Memorials were directed to First Lutheran Church or to support a veterans' foundation in Steven's honor.
