Daniel Duane Olson

Daniel Duane Olson, 43, of Moorland, Iowa, passed away Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines from injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, June 12, at Laufersweiler Funeral Home in Fort Dodge. A private Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, June 13. The family requests attendees wear casual clothing to the Celebration of Life in honor of Dan's preferred attire - jeans and a black T-shirt.

Dan was born on Sept. 17, 1982, in Fort Dodge, the son of Duane and Deanne (Foster) Olson. He graduated from Prairie Valley High School in Gowrie in 2001. He attended Iowa Central Community College for one year in the machinist program, but instructors told him, "Dan, you need to pursue an engineering degree." He went on to earn a degree in mechanical engineering from Iowa State University in 2007. An exceptionally gifted engineer, Dan never encountered a problem too big to solve.

Following college, Dan joined the Randy Meyer Racing Team. Dan's skill, knowledge and work ethic were invaluable assets to the team. He always cherished the memories and friendships formed during those years.

Later, Dan ran the CNC Department at Bauer Built in Paton, Iowa, for several years. Most recently, he worked alongside his father and Curt Messerly, a longtime friend, on the family farm. Together, the trio developed several farming inventions. He had an understanding of mechanics and the ability to problem-solve that led anyone who knew him to use words like genius and brilliant when describing Dan.

One of Dan's proudest accomplishments was earning Level 3 High-Power Certification from the Tripoli Rocketry Association. The certification is the highest amateur rocketry credential available, granting authority to purchase, build and launch large rockets. Dan said that achievement meant even more to him than his college degree, as fewer people achieve such certification.

Despite his remarkable intelligence, Dan remained humble. He was known for the playful smirk that appeared when he thought an idea might not be the brightest. He was a person of integrity, honesty and authenticity. You always knew where you stood with Dan, and those qualities were cherished by his family and friends.

In recent years, Dan overcame a severe staph infection and sepsis that led to deterioration of numerous bones in his spine. He spent weeks at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, demonstrating the mental toughness and determination that defined him. Through perseverance, he overcame the injuries to regain the use of his arms and legs. Giving up simply was not in Dan's nature.

Dan was passionate, kind and gentle. He shared special bonds with the many cats he cared for throughout his life, and recently adopted a kitten named Magnus. The name held special meaning, reflecting the strength and resilience Dan displayed during the challenges he faced over the past several years.

Dan is survived and lovingly remembered by his parents, Deanne and Duane Olson of Fort Dodge; his brother, Kyle (Nicole) Olson; nieces, Jaylon and Morrison; nephew, Rhett; maternal grandfather, Gary Foster; paternal grandfather, Bernard Olson; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends; and his beloved cats. He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Geraldine Foster and Charlotte "Peggy" Olson; and his uncles, Thomas Foster and Dennis Olson.

Memorials in Dan's memory may be left to the discretion of the family.