Richard “Rick” Paul Olds, 84, of Iron Mountain, Michigan passed away peacefully at Bellin Hospital in Green Bay, WI on Sunday November 1, 2026, with his loved ones by his side holding his hands. Richard was born on February 17, 1942, in Marquette, MI to the late Bernie and Fay Olds. His undergraduate school years were spent at John D. Pierce Training School where he was a three-sport athlete. It was during these formative years that the phase “learn it, love it, live it” would become his legacy. Following graduation, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary education with an emphasis in Physical Education, followed by Master’s degree in Education from NMU. He began teaching physical education for the Iron Mountain Public School system in 1966 where he was instrumental in the development of the Lower Elementary Physical Education Program. His coaching career began not long after and did not end until he took his last breath.

Richard married Maureena (Cookie) Janice L’Huillier on February 11, 1966, and they were married almost 61 years at the time of his death. They raised two loyal daughters (bird dogs #1 and #2) who grew up in a caring family that loved each other unwaveringly. Much of their time together was spent at sporting events that were always filled with fun and laughter.

Richard’s love of sports began at John D. Pierce where he excelled in football, basketball, and track. However, sports became his passion after he made the Palestra ice rink his second home (it was literally in his backyard). His hours of ice time earned him the left-wing position on a semi-pro team, the original Marquette Iron Rangers. He was a born competitor, and throughout his life he continued to diversify his athletic prowess by playing fast-pitch softball and men’s league basketball. Without a doubt, some of the best days of Jill and Terri’s childhood were spent traveling to their Dad’s baseball games, especially those played at Hurley field in Marquette, with family and friends. Later in life Richard took up golf and became part of a feared foursome that included Harvey Johnson Sr., Bobby Staples, and Franny Brouillette. They shared a special bond and many years of fun. The last putt Richard ever made was to win the Iron Mountain football coaches and friends golf outing. No surprise to the guys golfing, he was a winner.

He is survived by his soul mate Maureena “Cookie”, daughter’s Jill and Terri, his son-in-law and best friend Bucky Johnson, brother Bernard “Bitsy” (Betty) Olds, his cherished grandchildren Kate (Cole) Grenier, Kyle Johnson, Marcus Johnson, Gabe (Maddie) Andrews, Tessa Andrews, and most beloved great grandchildren, Addilynn, Jackson, and Bennett Grenier along with many sister-and brothers-in-law, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Richard was well-known in the community as a teacher, coach, mentor, and friend. He devoted much of his time to numerous Community Schools programs including the Great 8 Games and the Saturday Afternoon Recreation Program because he knew our youth needed a positive outlet to keep them on the right path. For nearly 60 years he has impacted kids from Iron Mountain, not only because he was a master of the game, but it was his ability to relate to them on a level they could comprehend that was his true gift. His students became players on teams that won championships. Those who knew him best would say his ability to focus under pressure is what made him who he was. On the court, field, track, and in the gym classrooms he was hard-nosed and strict in order to activate an individual’s potential and bring out their best. As a brother, husband, dad, and papa he was still those things, but on a much more compassionate, softer level, especially with his grandchildren. Papa Chard cherished, molded, educated, helped, guided, and most of all loved his grandchildren in the way only he could-with joy, happiness, wisdom, generosity, and the touch of an extremely caring man. There is no doubt Richard’s legacy has been passed on to them. If there was ever a Grandpa Hall of Fame, Richard Olds would be one of the first inductees. He is also one of the best red sauce makers around, perfecting his “Ricks Red” over the years with secret ingredients that he finally shared with the rest of us. The Sunday meals, holiday meals, and just any occasion meals with Rick can never be replaced but will forever be cherished. Another of Rick’s favorite pastimes was to work on restoring family cars with his brother Bitsy. Summertime rides in the “magic car” were the best!

Over the years, Richard’s achievements and awards have been numerable, with his induction into the UP Sports Hall of Fame being one of the highlights of his career. His Coach of the Year recognitions and countless winning records speak for themselves.

Our family would like to thank Dr. Guntupalli and the staff at both Emplify Health by Bellin Cancer Team in Marinette and Emplify Health by Bellin Hospital in Green Bay for providing continual care and comfort to Richard during his courageous battle with cancer. He was a survivor, a fighter, a leader, and a winner, who had a heart of gold overflowing with love. There are no words to describe how much he will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Richard Olds Scholarship via Dawn Smith at IMHS 300 W. “B” street. Richard always had the softest spot in his heart for animals as well and would be grateful for any assistance given to the local animal shelters.

Family and friends are invited to the Pine Grove Country Club on Saturday, November 7, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. to celebrate Richard's life.

The family has entrusted Jacobs Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Iron Mountain, MI to handle the service.

Friends may leave condolences and tributes to Richard's family online at www.jacobsfuneralhomes.com