Robert A. Olson passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 13, 2025, ten days shy of his 87th birthday. He spent his life as a husband, father, builder, historian, magic dealer, and performer who brought enormous joy to hundreds of thousands.
Robert was the guest of honor at the 2024 Yankee Gathering organized by the New England Magic Collectors Association. The article on his life in The Yankee Magic Collector 21 is a wonderful read, offering a detailed review of his life and work. Robert had a quick, dry wit, and a pixieish way about him that endeared him to almost everyone who met him.
He was erudite, passionate, fun, generous, loving, and dedicated to his family and friends. His whimsy underlied his deep commitment to sharing history with others. He spent a lifetime acquiring skills and passing them on. Starting in the early 1970s, Robert spent a significant portion of his life working and performing at Old Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts. He boasted that he could demonstrate almost all of the trades equally well. He is best known for his work highlighting the memory of the first American-born magician of note, Richard Potter. This he accomplished through thousands of performances throughout New England and around the world. Robert made sure that Potter’s place in magic was not lost to the mists of time. As a result, Robert’s name will forever be associated with Potter’s.
He was an expert practitioner of contemporary conjuring as well, performing at corporate events, trade shows, festivals, and fairs. He was sought out by many for his knowledge and expertise, as well as the fun to be had listening to his stories.
Toward the end of his life, Robert dealt with difficult health issues with optimism, humor, and strength. Three weeks after having brain surgery to remove a tumor, Robert was back on stage accepting appreciation and performing for his peers. Two weeks after that, he was back at Old Sturbridge Village performing 72 performances to sold-out houses as part of their Christmas by Candlelight celebrations. To many, Robert’s performances were the highlight of their visit.
At the heart of it all, Robert was a massive friend to all. His enthusiasm was infectious and he went out of his way to infect as many as possible.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and audiences.
Observances will take place in Putnam, CT. The wake will occur on Friday, December 19, from 5-7 pm at the Gilman Funeral Home, 104 Church Street. A funeral mass will be presented at 10 am on Saturday, December 20, at Saint Mary Church, 218 Providence Street. Burial will be at the Saint Mary Church Cemetery, 355 Providence Street, Putnam, CT. A reception will follow the burial (location/time TBD).
