Conference Honoree Don Olsen

Patient, genuine, kind; few of many notable ways to describe Don Olsen and his lasting impression on those whom he surrounded.

The valued importance of cattle was taught to Don at an early age. Growing up on his family’s dairy and Hereford cattle operation, Don could be seen as a passionate rancher and leader. Thanks to his involvement as president of the Colorado FFA and the Colorado Junior Hereford Board, Don would continue his professional career as a cattleman throughout life. Influenced by his brother Jim, Don grew a fond interest in the Charolais breed and was intrigued by Charolais genetics. Together, the family established Yuma Colorado Charolais (YUCO), and soon after Don created Fancy Creek Charolais. Even today, Don’s cattle company is still run and operated in Randolph, Kansas.

Much of Don’s success has been closely accompanied by his wife, Charlotte Olsen. Don and Charlotte were married in September of 1975 in Mulvane, Kansas. Together, they had two children and one granddaughter. Their relationship was often spent ranching, travelling, and being involved in their community. Charlotte most enjoyed Don’s curiosity, as they would frequently take day trips to visit new places and people.

Being an Agricultural Economics enthusiast, Don took a visionary perspective on Charolais genetics and the industry’s marketing approach. He believed passionately in the importance of cattle shows to promote the Charolais breed. Don was involved on AICA committees such as Breed Improvement and Affiliate Committees where he also served as Vice Chairman of the Affiliate Committee.

While Don harbored a devotion to the cattle industry, he also offered strong ties to youth in his community. Whether he was leading 4-H clubs or coaching little league teams, Don was eager to assist his children’s teams and youth organizations. He was invested in helping young people learn and grow, and often mentored college kids on his ranch. Because of Don’s passion for youth and agriculture, memorials have been established in Don’s name for the Kansas Junior Charolais Association, Riley County 4-H Foundation, and the Randolph United Methodist Church.

As an esteemed alumni, Don dedicated much of his free time to Kansas State University athletics. Don was an avid football fan

By: Reagan Dolan

and as a season ticket holder, he dedicated time to cheer on the Wildcats whenever he could. This passion for K-State drove his family members to join the support of the university, but Don’s love for the college especially impacted his granddaughter.

One of Don’s favorite people to guide within youth organizations was his own granddaughter, Nissa Olsen. Many who had the honor of knowing Don could see that he enjoyed the time spent with his ranch buddy. Living only 20 miles apart, Nissa was able to spend much of her childhood growing up and learning the passion Don had grown for Charolais cattle. Today, Nissa has carried forth Don’s Charolais legacy. Numerous summers and countless hours of time spent working in the barn on show cattle instilled a bond between the two that he cherished greatly. While they spent much of their time working, Don and Nissa also made sure to have fun. Whether they were attending football games, driving to town for ice cream, or bonding on Sunday mornings, Don was proud of Nissa and the relationship they shared.

“I would describe my grandpa as a servant leader. He was the type of person who always went out of his way to help others. I sat next to him every Sunday at church, it was just us two in the pew most mornings, but it was often the highlight of my week,” -Nissa Olsen, grandaughter.

Don Olsen passed away on August 6, 2019, at his home. To know Don was to know the true compassion and dedication that a cattleman possesses. Even today, Don’s legacy as a rancher, husband, grandfather, and friend will not be soon forgotten. Don was an authentic man with big dreams, as described by his wife, Charlotte.

“Have fun, be fair, help others, and do your part to create a better world.”