From: Ed Pruitt

In Memory of Arvid Olson

Today, we remember and celebrate the life of Arvid Olson-a man of faith, a man of service, and a man who could always be counted on.

Arvid believed in serving others, and he lived that belief through his actions. As President of the Flagler Palm Coast Kiwanis Club from 2022 to 2023, he gave his time, energy, and leadership to our club and to the community we serve.

Through Kiwanis, Arvid helped support children and families, contributing to programs and efforts that give young people opportunities to learn, grow, and succeed. He understood that serving children is an investment in the future, and he was proud to play a part in that important mission. He never seemed to ask, “Why should I do this?” Instead, his approach was simply, “How can I help?”

Arvid was dependable. When something needed to be done, you could count on him to be there. He coordinated our roadside cleanup program and took great pride in helping keep our community beautiful. He also loved nature and was always willing to volunteer for our Earth Day celebration at Washington Oaks State Park.

These were more than volunteer activities to Arvid. They were expressions of the kind of person he was. He cared about his community, he cared about the environment, and he cared about making a difference.

Arvid was also a wonderful person to be around. He was easy to get along with, always pleasant, and genuinely interested in others. He had a quiet way of making people feel comfortable and welcomed. His kindness was natural, and his willingness to help never seemed to require recognition or praise.

I was fortunate to share with Arvid a love of travel, interesting food, and good wine. Although we never traveled together, whenever I mentioned a place I was interested in visiting, Arvid had usually already been there. He would gladly offer recommendations and share a hard drive filled with photographs he had taken with his wife, Pat. Through his stories, suggestions, and photographs, he gave me a glimpse of the places he and Pat had enjoyed together. That generosity was so characteristic of Arvid-he was always willing to share his knowledge, his experiences, and his enthusiasm with others.

But perhaps what I will remember most about Arvid is that he was always there to help. If someone needed assistance, he responded. If a project needed support, he stepped forward. If there was work to be done, he could be counted on.

His faith guided him, and his desire to serve gave purpose to the way he lived his life. He demonstrated that faith not only through words, but through compassion, responsibility, and action. He showed us that a meaningful life is built by helping others and by giving generously of our time and talents.

Arvid leaves behind a legacy of faith, friendship, service, and kindness. His commitment to Kiwanis helped strengthen our community and support children whose lives will be better because of the work he helped make possible. His efforts will continue through the programs he supported, the people he encouraged, and the example he set.

His time with us may have ended, but the good he did and the lives he touched will continue through the people and organizations he served.

For those of us in Kiwanis, we were fortunate to call Arvid our friend and fellow Kiwanian. We were fortunate to share in his commitment to helping children and building a stronger future for them.

And for me, I was fortunate to call him a friend.

Arvid lived a life of faith and service. He gave much, helped many, and made our community better simply by being part of it.

Rest in peace, Arvid. You served well, you gave generously, and you will be deeply missed.

Read More About Arvid Olson

Remembering Arvid Olson: A Life of Faith, Friendship, and Community Service
January 13, 1944 – July 14, 2026

Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast remembers Arvid Olson with deep gratitude for his leadership, kindness, and dedication to his community. Arvid passed away peacefully on July 14, 2026, in Palm Coast, with his beloved wife, Pat, by his side. His life reflected a commitment to caring for others through his profession, military service, church involvement, and volunteer work.

Born in Pasadena, California, Arvid was the son of Chester Olson and Mabel Park Olson. His parents and his siblings, Allene Olson and Gilbert Olson, preceded him in death. He graduated from San Ramon High School in Danville in 1961, attended California State College in Hayward, and earned his dental degree from the University of Pacific Dental School in San Francisco in 1969.

Arvid practiced general dentistry in El Cerrito, California, where he met and married Pat Wakeman. Their marriage spanned 51 wonderful years, filled with companionship, adventure, and shared interests.

His love of country and travel led Arvid to rejoin the Army in 1980. He and Pat spent three years stationed in Mainz, Germany, exploring Europe and developing a special fondness for France. After returning to the United States, they spent three years in Carmel, California, while Arvid was stationed at Fort Ord. He later attended the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta and became a board-certified endodontist.

In 1995, Arvid and Pat moved to Palm Coast, where he became an active participant in community life. At Trinity Presbyterian Church, he served as a deacon for three years. He also belonged to the Palm Coast Cruisers, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Elks Club, and Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast.

As Kiwanis Club President from 2022 to 2023, Arvid contributed his time, leadership, and support to the club’s mission of serving children and the community. His willingness to help and his gentle manner made him a valued member and friend. His service reflected the generosity and concern for others that shaped his life.

Arvid’s adventurous spirit also inspired him to open a travel agency in Palm Coast in 1999. Together, he and Pat escorted groups throughout the Caribbean and Europe, sharing their enthusiasm for discovering new places. His passion for photography added a personal touch to these journeys. He created professionally crafted DVDs featuring photographs and music selected to reflect the destinations visited, giving travelers lasting mementos of their experiences. Together, Arvid and Pat enjoyed more than 160 cruises.

Those who knew Arvid remember his unwavering faith, quiet strength, kindness, and deep love for God and family. Whether caring for patients, supporting his church, volunteering with community organizations, or sharing travel experiences, he willingly gave his time and talents.

A celebration of Arvid’s life was held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Palm Coast on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.

Kiwanis Flagler Palm Coast extends heartfelt condolences to Pat and all who loved Arvid. His friendship and example of service will remain a treasured part of the community he helped strengthen.