William (Bill) Olafson, devoted family man, owner of Earls, and cherished community member, passed away at the age of 81, surrounded by his loving family.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Rhonda; his children, James and Lisa (Álvaro Ramos); his grandchildren, Dylan, April, Lúa, Easton, Kai and Emily, his great grandchildren, Hailey and Ivey and his mother, Ethel Olafson. His sister Carole and many nieces, nephews, and extended family also survive him. He was predeceased by his father, Narfi and his brother Dennis.

He will be remembered for his quick sense of humour, his love of music, fun holidays, golf, tennis but most especially for the love for his family.

Bill has had an impact on generations of youth working at Earls over the 42 years.

Bill’s service earned significant recognition. He was named Red Deer Citizen of the Year in 2008 by the Rotary Club of Red Deer, received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, and, together with Rhonda, was honoured with the G.H. Dawe Memorial Award of Excellence from Red Deer College (now Red Deer Polytechnic) in 2002. Those who knew Bill will remember a man who preferred quiet, often anonymous giving, who could rally an entire community with a phone call, and who found deep satisfaction in seeing good work completed.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held on August 13 at 2 p.m. at the Harvest Centre at Westerner Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Alexo, Youth HQ or the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre.

• Date : 2026-07-23
• Location : Eventide Funeral Home