Carl Olsson was born in Scotland and raised in the town of Chelmsford. While he did leave Chelmsford to attend college in Colorado, he and his wife Judy looked forward to returning to the town where they shared cherished friendships as well as family. At Chelmsford High School, Class of 1963, Carl was best known for his athletic talents. His school record for the 220 yard dash remains unbroken to this day. He was State Champion and record holder in that event as well. For four years he was undefeated in the 100 yard dash on his home track.

Carl was an unassuming student academically, a bit undecided about attending college or his future career. His major goal in life never faltered, and that was to be a good person. Carl’s actions and words throughout his life echoed the Golden Rule: Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you.

He undertook a career in teaching Social Studies at Wilmington High School and eventually became Social Studies Department Head there. He also became a very active member of the School Community serving as advisor to various classes, the Junior Class Variety Show, the History Club and National History Day as well as coaching and serving on many professional committees.

As busy as he was at school, Carl still found time to be very active in the town in which he lived. Among his many activities, he served on the School Committee for 12 years, the Democratic Town Committee for over 20 years, was a member of the Board of Directors of Camp Paul for 10 years, coached in the town soccer, softball, and basketball programs, and managed the Russell Mill Swim and Tennis Club. He was a member of the Chelmsford High School Alumni Association and a 1993 inductee into its Hall of Fame.

The roles in which he took the most pride were those of husband to Judy and father to Erik and Maryellen. No matter what role he performed, he did so with humility, with a warm sense of humor, and with an appreciation for the gifts of others with whom he worked. While Carl’s life was cut short by cancer, he remains an inspiration to others and proof that one person can make a positive difference - if he remains true to himself and truthful and caring towards others. Fittingly inscribed on a plaque at the Carl A. Olsson Community Track and Field at the McCarthy Middle School is: “He fought the good fight. He finished the race. He kept the faith.” This scholarship is a way for his family and friends to allow others to make a positive contribution in Carl Olsson’s name to benefit future generations.