RitzBitz

Ronald L. Olson, 62, a longtime PMA member and MotoPhoto franchisee passed away on May 8 after a long and courageous battle against cancer. Olson’s career in the photo business began in 1962 at Walgreen Drug and progressed to a MotoPhoto franchise in 1987. Later he ran multiple locations in Arizona and became the area developer for MotoPhoto/Western Region for several years. In that capacity, Olson was instrumental in helping other franchisees with store operations and marketing.

  In recent years, mainly due to health concerns, Olson concentrated on his own MotoPhoto store in Glendale, Ariz., which he ran until he sold it to his manager of 15 years, Joel Poes, who has continued in Olson’s outstanding example.

  Olson was a man of many interests. Beside his love of photography, he was an author of novels, a hiker, fisherman, and world traveler. Golf was another “addiction” in his life. Olson and Poes played on the Glendale Chamber of Commerce league for many years, once finishing in 4th place out of 18 teams. When Olson wasn’t doing those things, he loved to ride his Harley Davidson motorcycle around Arizona with his wife Karen on the back seat. He also loved music and had been known to camp out for tickets to his favorites, including Rod Stewart, Bob Seegar, and the Rolling Stones when they played the Phoenix area.

  He is survived by his wife of 41 years Karen, his son Mark, and his brother Roger (Susan). They were also MotoPhoto franchisees at one time. His love of life will live on in the memories and the hearts of his friends and colleagues.

  In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St. Phoenix, AZ 85014, or The Ron Olson Memorial Fund at Shadow Rock United Church of Christ, 12861 N. 8th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85029.