Support Desiree &the Olson Family after their loss

On January 14, our dear friend, Desiree Olson, unexpectedly lost her brother, Jimmy. He was just 38 years old. The family is devastated. This happened after an already trying year of health issues and unexpected expenses for the Olson family in 2023. In addition to their enormous emotional loss, they are now faced with a number of expenses. Please help support Desiree and her family with costs associated with the upcoming funeral and service and other financial obligations.

At the time of his passing, Jimmy was also living with Desiree and contributing to half of the rent and living expenses and she is locked into that lease through June 2024. Desiree is a brilliant photographer who has worked for a number of local nonprofits - most recently, Second Harvest Heartland. She does so much for our community through that work. Now we are asking the community to help support her and her family in their time of need. Any amount helps. Thank you for your generosity and support.

A celebration of life will be held at The Chatterbox, for family and friends, at noon on February 18.

*Photo by Desiree, of Jimmy with their parents.

Obituary

It is with broken hearts we share the news of the sudden passing of James “Jimmy” Julian Jon Olson, 38, of Minneapolis, on January 14, 2024. Born September 19, 1985, Jimmy grew up in Red Wing, Minnesota. He attended Red Wing High School and then earned an associate’s degree in film and screenwriting from Minneapolis Community and Technical College. Most recently, Jimmy was the long-time kitchen manager at popular south Minneapolis eatery, the Chatterbox. He took tremendous pride in his work, and held himself to a high standard. He was beloved by his co-workers, employers, and many regular customers. Jimmy was a natural artist, creator, and empath with a brilliant, inquisitive mind. Self-taught in many creative pursuits, he was an especially talented musician and cook. He was passionate about video games, movies, and endlessly making people laugh.

Jimmy came from a close-knit family, and was a loyal friend. He will be remembered for his infectious laugh and contagious sense of play, infinite kindness and selflessness, and dazzling spirit. Jimmy's brilliant light will live on in the hearts of all he encountered and loved. Jimmy is survived by his parents, mother Nancy Olson; father James Olson; sisters Desiree, Natalie, and Anita; nephews Koby, Kassidy (Jennifer), and Kader; and his kitty Sweetpie.