Robert A. Olson, U.S. Army veteran
PUTNAM — Robert Olson, 86, of Putnam, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 13, 2025. He was born Dec. 23, 1938, to Bernt “Ben” and Charlotte (Hepp) Olson in Brooklyn, New York.
Robert lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to learning and sharing history and magic with others.
Robert was predeceased by his beloved wife Ursula (Eberley) Olson. He leaves his three children: Anne Olson, Mary Barratt, and Robert Olson (Maryann); grandchildren Jordan Olson, Mark Barratt, Dawn Barratt, Bridget Olson, and Emma Olson; and his sister Margaret Fasano and her children Lynnanne Nauman, Mark Nauman, Nancy Fasano, Karl Fasano.
Robert’s early years were shaped by a strong academic foundation. He attended Brooklyn Technical High School and went on to study electrical engineering at Brooklyn College. He always said his technical training at Brooklyn Tech allowed him to land the job at Old Sturbridge Village, (OSV) and made him indispensable as an interpreter early on in his career.
It was, however, his insatiable passion for history and learning, paired with his energetic love of performing that ultimately defined his life’s work and legacy. From the moment he joined Old Sturbridge Village as an interpreter, Robert found his true calling.
For more than five decades, he dedicated himself to the living history museum, immersing himself in the stories of America’s past. It was there that he discovered Richard Potter—America’s first magician—and this discovery would change the course of his life. He often stated that he owed everything to Richard Potter. For more than 50 years, he performed as Richard Potter, captivating generations with historical magic shows that blended education with wonder. With meticulous research and heartfelt dedication, Robert recreated Potter’s performances and brought them back to life for modern audiences. He brought joy, laughter, hope, and wisdom to all that watched.
Through this persona and performance art, he found a way to connect deeply with people of all ages. Through humor, precision and whimsy he taught history while evoking awe. His work at OSV allowed him not only to follow his passion but also to become a beloved figure in the world of historical entertainment.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Robert served his country honorably from 1961 to 1963 as part of the U.S. Army’s military intelligence division in New York City.
A longtime resident of Putnam, Robert was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Parish for over 50 years. His family, his faith and his community involvement were important pillars of his life. While his son, Bob, was a Boy Scout, he volunteered to support the troop at St. Mary’s. He also was a fixture at the Circle of Fun, calling Bingo numbers, performing Punch and Judy, and entertaining audiences with Harry Ames, a bawdy and lewd fictional 19th century magician.
After retiring from OSV, he kept connected to both his passions. He never stopped sharing his love for the past; he continued to research, learn, and perform magic. Getting together with fellow magicians and attending New England Magic Collectors Association meetings and gatherings. He stayed connected with his OSV friends and continued up until December 2024 performing Richard Potter at OSV’s Christmas by Candlelight. His last magic show was Father’s Day 2025 at George Washington’s encampment in Newburgh, N.Y.
Those who knew Robert will remember him as someone who made life more magical simply by being present. He had a rare gift in teaching others how to grow up without ever losing their sense of childlike wonder. One of his fellow entertainers and dear friend recalled one of their last conversations. Robert reminded him, “We had had a good run and brought laughter and joy to thousands of people over the years and what better gift could we have given and what better purpose could we have in life.” May Robert Olson’s memory continue to inspire wonder and joy in all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Robert’s memory may be made to: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (www.cff.org); or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org), both causes close to his heart.
Visitation was Dec. 19 at Gilman Funeral Home 104 Church St, Putnam. A Funeral Mass was Dec. 20 at St. Mary’s Church, 218 Providence St., Putnam.
.