Daniel Alan Olsen

Mr. Daniel Alan Olsen, age 39, of Grantville, Georgia, traded his earthly assignment for a heavenly mission on January 8, 2026. Daniel was born on April 9, 1986, in Plantation, Florida, to Svend and Dona Olsen. Daniel was adventurous and fearless from an early age, with a heart that sought to meet the needs of loved ones above his own. He was loyal, daring, strategic, and comical, never failing to pass up an opportunity for a good laugh or a good time. He won the hearts of children and animals whenever he encountered them, and if you were a person fortunate enough to meet him, he would easily consider you a friend. He was a kid at heart and never met a stranger, quickly lending a helping hand to those in need around him, which led many to become fans of Dan. He was mechanically inclined with an uncanny ability to fix any problem, and he adopted the "no shoes, no shirt, no problem" dress code for most of his days. He loved riding the terrain on any and all wheeled vehicles and possessed acrobatic skills to the awe and admiration of his peers. He had an infectious smile and characteristic chuckle that left the room better than when he arrived. Daniel was a patriot to his core, a warrior, sacrificial, and a proud and dedicated member of the military brotherhood. His love for his country led him to enter the US Army in 2007, where he completed training as an Infantryman. Afterwards, he was assigned to HHC 1-27 INF 25th ID Sniper Section Wolfhounds. While completing his second deployment in Iraq, he was wounded in action and was awarded the Purple Heart, but in unwavering commitment, returned months later to serve out his time of duty. During his time in service, he was presented the Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, numerous Army Commendation Medals, as well as the Good Conduct Medal. He attended sniper school, a warrior leadership course, and multiple medical courses. But, Daniel never talked about his accolades, his awards, or the Army's decorated recognitions it bestowed upon him. Daniel spoke only of the men who fought beside him, his brothers. He served his country with honor, integrity, and selfless sacrifice. Those who served in combat beside Daniel considered him an example to follow, a trusted friend and a brave warrior; the bravest in fact, because Daniel would have laid down his own life for any of them. The servicemen who fought beside Daniel to protect the freedom we as Americans so cherish, were proud to call him brother, warrior and most of all friend. Upon completion of his active duty contract, Daniel left the US Army as a Sergeant. Though he is undeniably a highly decorated countryman, his biggest accomplishment and adoration was his wife and three children. To call him a devoted, protective, caring, ever present husband and father would be selling him short. To the end, his family was his greatest investment and his highest priority. Daniel fully embodied the essence of a man and his life resounds of Second Corinthians 4:17: For his light and momentary troubles have achieved for him an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. Daniel is survived by his devoted wife of 15 years, Mallory Olsen, their daughters Ansley and Addison Olsen, along with son Ezekiel Olsen. Father and Mother, Svend and Dona Olsen; brother David and wife Amber Olsen and nephews. Surviving in-laws include James and Robin Leonard, along with brother and sister in-law, Brandon and Amy Clark and sons, sister in-law Brittany Wingo and sons. In lieu of flowers, Daniel's family gratefully asks that donations be made to Waypoint River Ranch www.waypointranch.org/donate In honor of Daniel's life, a memorial service will be held on January 16th at 4:00 at McKoon Funeral Home with visitation prior to service from 2:00-4:00 where family, friends, and fellow soldiers can pay their respects and celebrate a life dedicated to service and sacrifice. Daniel's family would also like to express their deepest gratitude and appreciation for the love and support exhibited by many friends and family members during this difficult time. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.mckoon.com. McKoon Funeral Home & Crematory (770) 253-4580

Daniel Alan Olsen

April 9, 1986 - January 8, 2026