Paul (Spanky) Olson

Paul E. Olson, of Danbury, CT died unexpectedly at home on October 13, 2025. He was born in Danbury on July 30, 1956 and was a 1974 graduate of Danbury High School. He was preceded in death by his father Wilford E. Olson, mother Mary T. Olson (Laskowski) and great- nephew Wyatt J. Bowen. He will be sadly missed by his brother Karl Olson and his sister and brother- in- law Nancy and Thomas Bowen, aunt Barbara Olson, nephew Joseph Bowen (Anna), niece Katherine Bowen Kiernan (Timothy), great-nieces Reagan Grace Bowen and Kennedy Rose Bowen, several cousins and extended family, Carol and Janet Bowen.

From an early age Paul, affectionately nicknamed Spanky, had a passion for auto racing. He was a devoted fan of NASCAR and throughout his life participated as a valued member of numerous pit crews throughout the area. He was an exceptional mechanic and never hesitated to help a family member or friend with fixing anything that needed it.

He built a career out of his interest in mechanics and motors. Spanky was employed as a Swiss screw machine set up man for over 45 years at Amphenol in Danbury.

Following his family’s tradition, like his grandfather and father before him, Spanky was a proud member of the Beaver Brook Volunteer Fire Department. During his years of service Spanky was also elected to the position of Chief and was recognized as the youngest member ever elected to that prestigious position. He was also a member of the Danbury Elks Lodge No 120.

Spanky also enjoyed watching sports and was a big fan of the New England Patriots. He often traveled to Foxboro with his brother to enjoy an afternoon supporting the team.  Throughout the years, Spanky also loved watching his nephew and niece as they competed in youth and high school sports.

Traveling to Atlantic City with friends Sue and Brian Lemke was a favorite pastime of Spanky’s. He cherished the fun they had, meals and refreshments they shared and truly valued their friendship.

Spanky also loved to cook and proudly carried on his mother’s tradition of making Polish pierogies. He continued making her traditional pierogies but took the craft to another level with creating Thanksgiving turkey pierogies and others to celebrate the holidays. Spanky often rallied the family together for “pierogi day” where they would gather and work all day making hundreds of pierogies to give away at the holidays.

Spanky was a good man and will long be remembered for his big heart and generosity. He was a devoted brother, uncle and friend and will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Rest in peace, brother.

As per his wishes, there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service will take place at the

discretion of the family.

 Memorial donations can be made to the Scotty Fund, PO Box 1080 Bethel, CT 06801

 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105

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