What three words most accurately describe him?
Hardworking, strong, compassionate. 

What was your first impression of him, and is it the same now?
I’ve always been a daddy’s girl and grew up playing in the shop following him around. I would try to help him, and if he needed tools I would run to his big ole yellow toolbox and pull every drawer until I found the right thing he was looking for. I’ve always seen how hardworking he is and how compassionate he is towards everyone. If anyone needed help with anything big or small, my dad would be right there. He is still the same way, and I love him for being that person everyone can rely on and trust. He is definitely a best friend to have, and I’m glad to still have him as mine.  

When and how did you realize how important he was going to be in your life?
I’ve always known my dad was special to me because of all the memories and things we did together as I was growing up. After high school, I knew I wanted to learn the business that he was so proud of building. But on the morning of January 31st, 2019, I knew he was going to be even more important to me. That morning he depended on me, my mom, and other family being the ones caring for him. After the accident, my family realized how much he meant to his customers and the community. The amount of support and prayers my dad and family got were amazing. All of that was from him being such a good person to everyone. Dad, I know you will be reading this, and I want you to know you mean the world to a lot of people, and we are so thankful for how strong you are and how hard you fight to get better for us all! As we always say, “We love you more than you have ever been loved before,” Mom, Jordan, Larah, Paige, Daniel, and Karahlyne. 

What do you think he really loves about his career?
My dad opened his business, loving to do bodywork, painting, and making something not so pretty into something new again. Seeing a customer that was not so happy when they dropped their car off to seeing them smiling because it “Shines like New” again is very rewarding to him. 

What quotes or sayings does he use most often?
“Let’s get ‘er done.” 

What traits does he have that make him successful?
Confidence, ambition, and honesty. 

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from him?
Never to give up and always follow your dreams. 

How do you hope to emulate him professionally and/or personally?
I hope to follow in his footsteps, making Xtreme Body and Paint as successful as he has. He has always dreamed that one day his children would take over the business. I hope one day my brother, sister, and I will all work together for our family business to make that dream come true.

Narrated by his daughter,
Paige (Russell) Olsen
Administration, Xtreme Body and Paint