01/15/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Mr. Al Olson. Al was the driving force behind the creation of the Echo Car Show, and his vision and dedication shaped an event cherished by many. He will be deeply missed.
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Obituary for Alton Lawrence Olson
Alton (Al) Lawrence Olson, 83, of Pendleton, Oregon, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on January 13, 2026. He was born on November 13, 1942, in Oletha, Kansas, to Lawrence and Lois McWilliams Olson. Alton was the second youngest of five siblings: Karl Lee, Vernon, Verla, and Susan.
Alton attended elementary school at various locations in Kansas before continuing his education at Pendleton Junior Academy (1954–1958) and Upper Columbia Academy (1958–1960). He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts Education with a minor in Psychology from Walla Walla College (1968) and later completed a Master’s degree in Industrial Arts from Oregon State University (1972–1976).
On August 23, 1964, Alton married Doris Virginia Haney, beginning a loving partnership that lasted 61 years. Together, they raised two children: Tracy Alton (born May 11, 1968) and Melanie Virginia (born May 27, 1970).
In 1968, Alton and Doris moved to Woodburn, Oregon, where Alton began his teaching career in the Woodburn School District. In 1979, following the tragic death of his father, the family relocated to Pendleton to assist his mother with the family farm. Alton continued teaching at Echo High School for 30 years (1979–2009), where he inspired countless students and started a car club that grew into an infamous car show recognized throughout the Northwest. After retiring, Alton felt called by God to continue teaching. He helped build a new shop at Harris Junior Academy and taught Industrial Arts for another 13 years.
Alton was deeply devoted to his faith and the Seventh-day Adventist Church, serving in numerous roles: earliteen leader, elder, head elder, greeter, and youth room leader for 19 years. During COVID-19, Alton and Doris opened their home for a small group church. His latest ministry was creating a young adults sabbath school class focused on “Leaders in Training (LIT) for God”, equipping the next generation for leadership.
Alton’s life was marked by integrity, kindness, and service. He loved teaching, woodworking, farming, cars, and sharing his faith. His legacy lives on in his family, students, and community.
He is survived by his wife Doris, his children Tracy and Melanie, and his grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 19, at 11:00 AM at the Pendleton Seventh-Day Adventist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pendleton Christian School worthy student fund.
