TRAVERSE CITY — Gerald Paul Olson, 77, of Traverse City, passed away Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City.Jerry was born Friday, Jan. 26, 1934, to the late Otto and Ila Olson. He graduated from Traverse City High School and worked for three years in a pharmacy, which he enjoyed. He then worked 34 years for the U.S. Postal Service, until he retired in 1989. He and Maxine then spent winters vacationing in Surprise, Ariz. He was a longtime member of Bayview Wesleyan Church.Jerry is survived by his wife, Maxine (Beeman), who he married Aug. 30, 1952; they shared 59 wonderful years together. They had four children, Paul Olson, Jeffery Olson, Jennifer Thomas and Karl (Mellissa) Olson; and three grandchildren, Shawna, James and Christopher. Jerry is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Betty Olson and Roxie Olson; and his brother-in-law, Gordon Besaw; along with many nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his brothers, Ray and Rich Olson; and sisters, Hazel (Ed) Broomhead and Sylvia Besaw.Visitation for Jerry will be from 5 until 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 18, at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.Funeral services celebrating Jerry's life will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, at Bayview Wesleyan Church, with Pastor Jack Steenbergh officiating. Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery.The family asks that Jerry be remembered through memorial contributions to Bayview Wesleyan Church Building Fund or the American Cancer Society.Please share your thoughts and condolences with the family by way of Jerry's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com.The family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home.