Clark O. Olsen

Clark Orville Olsen, MD, passed away on October 25, 2025 at Methodist Hospital in Minneapolis. Clark was born August 8, 1937 to Orville and Sophia Olsen, and grew up in Holmen, Wisconsin. He received his undergraduate degree from St. Olaf College, and Doctor of Medicine from the University of WI Medical School. He interned at Minneapolis General Hospital, and earned his degree in Orthopaedic Surgery from the Minneapolis VA. In 1975 he was elected a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Drafted during the Vietnam War, he served 2 years at an Army hospital which received casualties from the front.

In 1963 Clark married Ann Wheeler in La Crosse, WI, and together they raised three children: Leif, Trygve, and Ingrid. Clark practiced at the Dean Clinic in Madison, WI for 5 years, then moved to Ashland, WI, where he and his friend Jim Chambers established an independent orthopedic practice. He remained there until his retirement in 1994. During his time in Ashland, Clark served on the WI State Board of Medical Examiners for 12 years. In addition to his full time orthopedic practice, Clark found time to run an extensive farming operation, raising purebred beef cattle and enjoying his favorite activity - making hay! He loved the Northwoods, and took full advantage of the numerous fishing & hunting opportunities. For several years, he owned a Harley Davidson motorcycle, which took him on trips both around Lake Superior and out west.

Clark is survived by Ann, his wife of 61 years, three children: Leif (Cameron), Trygve (Tonia) and Ingrid (Eric), and 8 grandchildren: Brigitta, Brynn, Bergen, Sigrid, Henrik, Soren, Ivy, and Miles. He is also survived by his sister Sandra Schumacher, sister-in-law Peg Olsen, brother and sister-in-law Eric and Vicki Wheeler, nieces, nephews, and many friends across the country, including Madison, Washburn, and most recently, the Trillium Woods Community in Plymouth, MN. He was preceded in death by his brother Ward, his brother Roger (wife Audrey), and brother-in-law Bob Schumacher.

Memorials can be made to The Ashwabay Alliance (AOEF), in Bayfield, WI, or St. Olaf College. Condolences may be sent to The Olsen Family, c/o Gearty-Delmore Funeral Home, 15800 37th AVE. N, Plymouth, MN 55446.

There are no services planned at this time.