Community builders bid farewell
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Before it joined with Okanagan Centre, Oyama and Carr’s Landing to incorporate as a municipality, Winfield was already fortunate enough to have an unofficial mayor--at least in the minds of those who know Arnold Olson. Though Arnie and his First Lady Lois didn’t have any real political power locally, they nonetheless have made an impact on the lives of their friends through old-fashioned grassroots volunteerism.
After 36 years in the community the Olson’s have decided it’s time to pack their bags and move closer to family members living on the coast. Next month the couple will move into a suite in their daughter Heather Hamm’s Surrey home.
“My parents are a generous couple—always trying to help others,” says Heather. She recalls her mechanically inclined father lending his talent to just about anyone who asked when they were having motor troubles. Lois was seen as something of a “community mom.” A number of teenagers made the Olson residence their drop-in centre and Lois got to know a lot of them over the years and always made them feel welcome. Later when the kids were getting ready to leave high school, Lois was often found helping to plan her young friends’ graduation activities.
The Olsons were very active in the sporting community in Lake Country as well. Arnold coached hockey and also managed the Winfield Arena from its beginning years until his recent retirement. He coached ball as well and even led his team the Premium Magic to become provincial champions. He is a lifetime member of the Winfield Curling Club and over the years he organized many tournaments.
Wherever Arnie had any role in sports, Lois could always be found nearby. Whether she was pouring coffee at the Curling Club, running the concession stand at Jack Seaton Park where she treated Lake Country residents to her home-cooked comfort food or, just visiting with friends in the spectator stands, Lois has always been a welcome sight at sporting events.
When not busy volunteering, the Olsons could be found working as managers and caretakers at a couple of resorts in Winfield as well as at Jack Seaton Park. They also owned a Chevron station that has since been replaced by Petro-Canada.
Arnie never asked for anything in return for his countless volunteer hours but Winfield is a giving community. He was once honoured at a fundraiser by having his friends and family “roast” him in mocking tribute to his accomplishments. He also received a community service award.
“We (the family) want to thank the community for the many years of friendship and support shown to Arnold and Lois. Please look them up when you are in the Surrey area. They would love to keep in touch. Arnold and Lois didn’t know ahead of time that this article was being printed but we know that they would extend a fond farewell and thank you all for making this community such a wonderful place to spend 36 years,” says Heather.
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