VINALHAVEN — Ivan Haakon Olson, 86, of Vinalhaven, passed away peacefully at home April 28, 2013, surrounded by his family.

Born Sept. 15, 1926, in Vinalhaven, he was the son of Oscar and Elin (Depuis) Olson of Norway.

Ivan's love of the sea began at a very young age. He started lobstering at the age of 8 and fished until he retired at the age of 82. He had several boats during his fishing career, with the last one being named for his daughter, the Nancy O.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Ivan served from 1944 to 1952 during World War II and the Korean Conflict, participating in both the Atlantic and Pacific theatres. In Okinawa, Japan, he saw action and was awarded several medals including Good Conduct, World War II Victory, Navy Occupation, China Service and National Defense. Ivan was a member of the VFW, the American Legion and as a young man was a member of the Vinalhaven Fire Department.

Ivan loved gardening and was well known for his beautiful day lilies. He enjoyed hunting, stamp collecting and made gafts and miniature wooden pot buoys.

Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Norma (Whittington) Olson; two sons, Ivan E. Olson and his wife, Margaret, and Mark E. Olson and his wife, Diane; his daughter, Nancy Walker and her husband, Richie; his grandchildren, Christopher Guptill and his wife, Sarah, Rebecca Guptill, and Andrew Guptill and his companion, Jenn Guptill; one great-granddaughter, AnnaLee Dyer; a sister-in-law, Phyllis Orcut; and his niece, Linda Whittington and her husband, Daniel Ames.

He was predeceased by his parents; and one brother, Willie Olson.

In keeping with his wishes, a private service will be held at the convenience of the family.

Contributions in Ivan's memory can be made to Kno-Wal-Lin Hospice, 170 Pleasant St., Rockland, ME 04841.

Condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the Olson family by visiting their book of memories at www.longfuneralhomecamden.com.

Arrangements are with Long Funeral Home & Cremation Service in Camden.